Tonight is a rare chance for Ocean Colour Scene’s fans to see them in a more intimate setting and they do not disappoint. In recent years they have been playing bigger venues in London such as the Astoria (RIP) and Hammersmith Apollo in support of a new album release. Gigs of that stature must be tough for the band, as many turnout in hope of a trip down memory lane. Tonight in a 1000 only capacity is the perfect setting as a hard-core following sing-along to new numbers from the criminally underrated ‘Painting’ album.
The previous couple of OCS albums have been ok but Painting sees them back to their best with Fowler’s love of folk clashing with Craddock’s genius on the guitar to create their unique mod/folk sound. They open with ‘Painting’, a surprise too many but it grabs their attention and is met with ecstatic applause. ‘Weekend’ follows a few songs later and really strikes a chord with the crowd. With the ‘Mosely Shoals’ anniversary tour still fresh in the mind, the audience are left wondering is this new or a b-side from that era? It has a hypnotic quality not seen by the band since the ‘North Atlantic Drift’ album and the harmonies between Simon and Steve are a sight to behold.
Another treat for the loyal fans are rare outings of songs from the albums ‘One For Modern’ and ‘Mechanical Wonder’. ‘So Low’ is often a part of the setlist and is sung in full voice but ‘Emily Chambers’ and Jane She Got Excavated’ are seldom heard. They are met with rapturous applause and watched in stony silence as the Camden crowd marvel at the sweetness of Fowler’s vocals.
Of course all the big hits are in the set and they still garner a riotous response. Craddock’s guitars sound ready for Wembley Stadium rather than a small album launch gig. He makes ‘Travellers Tunes’, ‘Riverboat Song’ and ‘Hundred Mile High City’ sound like the biggest songs in the universe. Even as elder statesmen there is clearly ambition to be the best band possible, there is no second place mentality here which is clearly the reason for the high quality on ‘Painting’, an album you all should invest in.
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