Johnny Marr played his biggest solo headline show to date at a sold-out Castlefield Bowl on Thursday evening, part of the Sounds of the City summer series. The Smiths legend, 62, delivered a 20-song set blending solo material, new tracks from his upcoming album The Age of Everything, and beloved Smiths classics.
Homecoming Atmosphere
Golden sunshine bathed the industrial backdrop of the bowl as fans queued from 5pm to secure spots on the steps. Support acts The Clockworks and Manchester favourites Everything Everything warmed up the crowd, with the latter performing hits like Kemosabe and No Reptiles while dressed in matching yellow outfits.
Taking the stage just before 9pm, Marr opened with Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before, sparking the first of many Smiths singalongs. He quickly shed his denim jacket and greeted the crowd: “Hello Manchester, still Mancunian are we?”
Setlist Highlights
The set included teasers from The Age of Everything (due October), such as Spin, All in a Life, and It's Time. But Smiths staples drew the loudest reactions. This Charming Man was a highlight, prompting Marr to joke, “Thank you, good night.” Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want arrived as darkness fell, with passing trains glimpsing the spectacle. Marr remarked, “This is a nice spot for a concert.”
Marr’s softer vocal style gave new life to Smiths songs, while his masterful guitar work shone during Getting Away With It – the Electronic hit with Bernard Sumner and Neil Tennant. A disco ball sparkled as he strutted and raised his guitar high.
Fan Reaction and Encore
Fans screamed “Johnny, Johnny! Johnny f**king Marr!” in appreciation. The main set closed with Bigmouth Strikes Again, Easy Money, and How Soon Is Now?. The encore began with Panic, followed by a dazzling cover of Iggy Pop's The Passenger, and ended with a mass singalong to There Is a Light That Never Goes Out.
Taking in the adulation, Marr delivered an emotive message: “It means so much to me.” The show earned a 4/5 star rating.
