The Good The Bad & The Queen
Dudley JB’s
1st February, 2007

View: front, stage right

Supergroups? Thankfully, the awkwardly-named (or according to Damon Albarn, nameless) unit bucks the curse for a dynamic collaboration that’s not a mutual adoration society. It’s an alliance that lives up to its high expectations. Tonight is more of an event than a gig, the stage decked out like a village hall anticipating VE Day, and support is provided by a compere, comedian, juggler and bluegrass group. Albarn plays ringmaster, ex-Clash bassist Paul Simonon throws shapes and poses beautifully throughout, and Afro-beat drumming legend Tony Allen knits in perfectly. Simonon’s hulking low-end provides the backdrop to sparse, dark soundscapes. Simon Tong is understated with bursts of inventive, chopping guitar, a string quartet huddling behind, while Albarn shines on Herculean and Kingdom Of Doom. His observational, reflective style is constantly changing, challenging his audience and consistently connecting via wonderfully crafted, atmospheric songs evoking London’s shifting cultural make-up. The band may well be remembered as Albarn’s most remarkable achievement. A truly fantastic gig, and a super group indeed.

Reviewed by Neil Sheasby
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