:: The Zutons - Prince Of Wales Hotel, St.Kilda - July 2006

By: Carmine Pascuzzi

I know how good The Zutons are as far as their recordings are concerned. However, while I expected a very good show, I didn’t expect a fantastic one. Everything clicked this night at the Prince Bandroom. The Merseyside band came to our notice in 2004 with their eclectic “Who Killed The Zutons?” album. Then, earlier this year came their second album “Tired Of Hangin’ Around”, a terrific follow-up that dispelled the belief of the band being a passing fad.

Having missed their first Australian tour, I was as keen as mustard to see this band live. So were many others at the Prince because it was almost jam packed and the crowd was as enthusiastic as I’ve seen for quite a while. The band has a philosophy of doing their won thing and letting it take its own course. The fans appreciate the style and the catchy music, whatever the subject matter – light or dark. Therefore, the cynical characteristics of some of their lyrics harbour positive reactions from their audience because lead singer David McCabe has a unique way of driving the messages. From start to finish he stamped his authority on presenting an energetic and powerful performance. He was ably backed by his fellow musicians, including the attractive Abi Harding on vocals and saxophone. She endeared herself to the crowd with her energetic and charismatic performance.

A good balance of songs from both albums was on show plus a couple of new songs. It went down a treat for the fans and they could have played encore after encore, such was the impact of their show. The band loved the atmosphere around them and enjoyed the moment thoroughly. It won’t take too much convincing to recognise the popularity in Australia. Forgetting the Rolling Stones, who are in class of their own, this was probably the best live show I’ve seen so far this year.