“Another new song from us,” Liam Gallagher announces midway through the explosive debut gig of his new band.
As they launch into ‘The Beat Goes On’, Beady Eye’s response to ‘Don’t Look Back In Anger’, the crowd reacts like they’re hearing a classic single… perhaps one day it will be. However, the song is still too new to be considered a classic.
Almost everyone in the audience sings along, even though the band’s album ‘Different Gear, Still Speeding’ was released merely four days prior.
Any nerves that might have plagued singer Liam, guitarist Gem Archer, bassist Andy Bell, and drummer Chris Sharrock were non-existent, as the fans welcomed them with open arms at Barrowlands in Glasgow.
From the moment they dive into the lively mod-rock of ‘Four Letter Word’, the 2,000 fans give their all… and so does the band.
Liam’s voice appears… well, better than ever. The electrifying ‘Three Ring Circus’ comes across like a blend of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Speaking of which, whether by intent or chance, if you still purchase CDs from a record shop or download online, Beady Eye is likely to be filed alongside the Beatles… or at least near them. It may not matter what name you carry or your proximity to others, but it’s certainly intriguing nonetheless.
The intensity present is akin to the moment Oasis exploded onto the scene. Not that I’m suggesting Oasis are no longer significant, nor am I claiming Beady Eye to be the best band ever, but Oasis has become somewhat stale… a truth that’s hard to acknowledge. Beady Eye invigorate the scene… a fact evident in the energetic demeanor of Liam and the entire band.
While Beady Eye clearly showcases their influences, there are indicators of originality fighting to emerge within the massive wall of sound known as ‘The Morning Son’.
At the conclusion, Liam states, “We’ve only got a few tunes… but hang in there with us, and next year we’ll have some more.”
I certainly hope that’s true.
by Wallace McTavish
