This is how a resurrection is staged.
In the town of Ian Brown’s birth, far removed from Manchester’s bright lights, The Stone Roses stepped back onto the stage, 16 years post their bitter break-up.
The free concert, revealed at 4pm on Wednesday (fans needed to present proof of loyalty to the band – whether official T-shirts or CD inlays – for entry), attracted a large crowd to the unassuming venue of Warrington Parr Hall in northern England.
Eagerly, they gathered to catch a glimpse of the band that had defined a generation. With the sugary guitar pop of their debut album from 1989, they laid down the blueprint for numerous successful British guitar bands that followed over the next two decades, ranging from Oasis to Arctic Monkeys.
To understand the enduring significance of The Stone Roses, note that their three major shows at Manchester’s Heaton Park this summer broke records as the fastest-selling gigs in British rock history.
The band has entered into a significant record deal for two new albums, although this night was dedicated to familiar classics rather than untested material. From Made of Stone to Love Spreads, the setlist delivered an emotionally charged experience.
The choice of venue felt entirely appropriate, as places like Warrington Parr Hall were instrumental in building the band’s early reputation.
The Stone Roses began in Manchester in 1984, but after five years of underground performances and sonic refinement, they achieved a sound that fused indie-guitar melodicism with the euphoric rush of the burgeoning acid house scene. Since the release of their self-titled debut, they have established themselves as one of the quintessential classic British bands.
As they opened the show with I Wanna Be Adored, just as they had during their debut, the entire audience sang along. This concert was one of those rare occasions where fans enthusiastically echoed not only the melodies but also the bass lines and guitar riffs. With arms raised high, the anticipation was palpable. Even this famously self-assured band appeared momentarily nervous, yet it didn’t take long for singer Ian Brown to rediscover the swagger that has influenced countless frontmen, including a watching Liam Gallagher.
The iconic tracks poured forth, buoyed by John Squire’s exceptional guitar playing. Made of Stone sent shivers through the audience, while Where Angels Play felt reimagined, sounding fresher than ever.
Perhaps the most exhilarating aspect was the reminder of how the dynamic rhythm section—responsible for pioneering indie-dance—remained intact. Mani’s bass perfectly complemented Reni’s drumming, creating a powerful experience. Reni, regarded as the best drummer of his time, showcased his unique style, executing distinctive rolls with effortless flair. Brown delivered an outstanding performance; with a voice higher than in recent years following his decision to quit smoking, he filled the venue with his presence throughout the hour-long set.
The performance concluded with a stellar rendition of Love Spreads from the Roses’ often underestimated second album, Second Coming, before they exited the stage without an encore.
The statement was clear—The Stone Roses are back.
The band, which once could have had it all but seemed to dismiss their opportunities, has returned more prominent than ever.
Setlist
I Wanna Be Adored
Mersey Paradise
Sally Cinnamon
Made of Stone
(Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister
Where Angels Play
Shoot You Down
Tightrope
Waterfall
She Bangs the Drums
Love Spreads
by Wallace McTavish
