22 February 2019 (gig)
24 February 2019
The fact that Catfish and the Bottlemen can sell out Wembley Arena is testament to their ever growing global popularity. The celebrated venue is brimming with an air of anticipation up until a huge roar from the young crowd accompanies the band as they enter stage left. WIthout much ceremony, they launch straight into 'Longshot', the first single from their forthcoming and eagerly anticipated third album, 'The Balance' set to be released on the 26th April.
Interchangeable neon green and magenta lighting is the backdrop to an energetic performance from front man Van McCann as Catfish roll out the classics from the first two albums, 'Kathleen', 'Soundcheck' and 'Twice'. The crowd becomes an ocean of people swaying back and forth, with jackets and jumpers being flung around as the collective exuberance builds. I also spot a couple of hand puppet toucans in a nod to the artwork of the third album.
The tempo slows down a notch with 'Fallout' and 'Heathrow' and the customary acoustic solo before rising again with new single 'Fluctuate' which Van dedicates to 'anyone who's ever been in the balance'. The touch paper is lit in a rousing finale with '7', 'Cocoon' and ending with 'Tyrants'.
It's easy to forget just exactly how many indie guitar anthems they've penned and to the obvious delight of the fans, the new tunes are very much in the same vein. Catfish leave the stage to roaring approval and with nothing more to give. I'm very much looking forward to hearing the new album!
The band take off for a tour of the US in March and are back with more dates in the UK and Europe starting in Galway on the 28th April.
Check out tickets below.
