Stereophonics rock BC Place

Apart from divided anthem loyalties, the *real* reason for getting tickets to last night's medal ceremony (I swear I had no idea I was going to have to sing anthems, other those made famous by a Welsh rock band) was to see if the Stereophonics could lift a Canadian crowd.

I've never seen them live, but the CDs I have - played loud- really, really make me wanna 'rock out'.

Having witnessed the fairly polite, understated country act last week (let's not talk about it), the Stereophonics were the complete opposite. Yes the country dude (Paul Brandt, for anyone counting) had the crowd in the palm of his hand, but they weren't bouncing like they were last night. 10 deep in places where last week they had been politely sitting, applauding (maybe waving the odd Stetson), and singing every word to every song (with no small amount of Welsh flag waving), last night was excellent. Just excellent.

And the Stereophonics were at their best when they were playing pure, loud, unadulterated rock music. Yes, the more subtle numbers showed a range, but once Kelly Jones straps on the axe and strums the first chords of Bartender and the Thief you know you're in for a good time. And ending with Dakota (along with fireworks, streamers and ticker tape) was a fitting end to an excellent hour (all they were allowed before the Canadians had to go to bed - seriously, when have a band of their stature EVER finished a show at 8.30??).

A final note to Kelly. Louder, faster songs and more of them please. And come back soon.





Pics courtesy of Mrs. Tom's supernice (it's a word) friend Katherine