Echo and the Bunnymen's Leeds Performance: A Night of Mixed Fortunes
At the O2 Academy in Leeds, Echo and the Bunnymen delivered a concert that highlighted both the enduring power of their music and the vocal challenges faced by frontman Ian McCulloch. The evening began with promise, featuring tracks like Going Up and All That Jazz from their 1980 album Crocodiles, which showcased the band's unique blend of psychedelia, post-punk, and classic songwriting that cemented their status as one of the most revered acts of the 1980s.
Ian McCulloch's Vocal Struggles Take Centre Stage
However, the performance quickly took a turn as McCulloch, now 66, appeared visibly irritated by technical issues, notably pointing at an amplifier and calling for assistance. Initially standing tall in his trademark shades and overcoat, he soon requested a stool, remaining seated for the remainder of the show while sipping and mumbling between songs. His inability to hit high notes was evident, particularly during Bring on the Dancing Horses, where he left the choruses entirely to the enthusiastic crowd before abruptly exiting the stage.
Will Sergeant's Guitar Work Provides a Silver Lining
Amidst these difficulties, guitarist Will Sergeant emerged as the standout performer. Sporting a small grey beard that gave him the air of a mysterious Russian novelist, Sergeant took it upon himself to uphold the band's legacy. He delivered torrents of glorious psychedelic shapes and pop riffs, with his 12-string playing on The Killing Moon being particularly exquisite. This track, often hailed as one of the greatest songs of all time, was sadly marred by McCulloch's struggles, prompting the audience to sing along in support.
Crowd Participation and Set Highlights
The second set offered some redeeming moments, with Seven Seas becoming another mass singalong and The Cutter and Lips Like Sugar displaying flashes of resplendence. Yet, even the band's glittering back catalogue could not fully compensate for a frontman so clearly off his game. Throughout the night, the crowd repeatedly stepped in to sing choruses, showcasing their dedication and love for these timeless songs.
Echo and the Bunnymen are scheduled to perform at Albert Hall in Manchester on 11 March, followed by a tour, leaving fans hopeful for a more balanced showcase of their iconic music.
