19 May 2004 (gig)
20 May 2004
Some bands can fill space and some bands can't. What I mean to say is that when you get a venue such as the Shepherds Bush Empire and it's half empty some bands make you feel destitute whilst others can fill that void with their all conquering presence. Hothouse Flowers are definitely the latter. In an auditorium that for some could have become sarcophagus they thrived. It's their brand of soul/gospel/jazz/rock that stirs emotions deep inside and brings them bubbling to the surface that sets them apart from rest. Liam inspires almost religious fervour as he takes you through the full musical experience with professionalism that is beyond dispute. After all, this is the man that Bono claimed "is the best white singer in the world".
The set list comprised of old favourites such as ‘Hallelujah Jordan', ‘Movies' and a Jazzed up version of ‘Don't Go' in which Liam invited half the audience up on the stage for an impromptu dance. Songs from the last album ‘Into Your Heart' also came across well with ‘Magic Bracelets', ‘Better Man' and ‘Your love goes on' my personal favourites.
With 20 years experience behind them Hothouse Flowers know how to work an audience. They played for well over 2 hours unlike every other band who these days seem to think 50 minutes is adequate. I left feeling like I'd seen a proper gig, and I had.
