Here we are again at my home from home for one of those enduring bands from the ’80s – the fabulous Electric Boys. But first, we have those pop punk lads, The Spangles.
Their setlist draws heavily from their 2019 album #Sweet F.A., and the boys open with the bouncy singalongs “I Don’t Wanna Go” and “The Only One”—a good, solid start. We get the rocking “One Good Reason”, followed by one of my favourites, the punchy “Back on the Meds Again” – a fantastic, energetic track. The band has that old-school pop punk sound that’s just so enjoyable.
Their track “Hold My Hand” keeps the bounce going, while “Alone” brings a real retro punk edge with a steady drum beat and a catchy hook for the chorus. The boys wrap up their upbeat set with the powerhouse pop punk number “Growing Up” – another highlight tonight. If you fancy a proper old-school pop punk bounce around like a nutter, then The Spangles are the band for you—get out there and catch them live.
Now for the main event – a band I’ve seen on numerous occasions, the fabulous Electric Boys. I’ve reviewed them a few times now and they never disappoint. It’s always a welcome trip down memory lane, and they open tonight with the groove-laden “Psychedelic Eyes”. There’s no denying that Conny still has a fantastic voice – a great start to the evening.
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It’s definitely a night for nostalgia, but we also get a couple from their newer 2023 album Grand Explosivos. The classic rocker “I’ve Got a Feelin’” is a hook-laden stunner with fabulous guitar work. You often forget just how good a player Conny is, and Martin is the perfect guitar partner alongside him. We also get the pounding, heavier-edged “Domestic Blitz”, packed with driving guitar and tasty bass lines from Andy.
One of the standout moments of the night is a stunning version of “Mary in the Mystery World” – a psychedelic rocker with a Beatles-meets-Aerosmith vibe. It was probably my favourite track of the evening; the band were on fire and this might just be one of the best times I’ve seen them.
The boys blast through a few golden oldies too, including “Rags to Riches” with its funky, hook-laden groove, and the guitar-heavy “Captain of My Soul”, before wrapping up a brilliant night with none other than “All Lips N’ Hips”. With its iconic guitar intro, it’s definitely a song of its era, yet it still sounds fresh. The crowd were all in, bouncing and singing along.
If Conny and the boys head your way, go and see them. They still radiate an electric energy on stage and you’re guaranteed a great night out. As I head for the bus, quietly singing “Mary in the Mystery World” to myself, I’m smiling all the way.
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Photos by Gary Cooper
