CityLife

HAVING only just recovered some hearing from the recent sonic torment of Kevin Shields’ deafening dream pop crews summer reunion shows the prospect of yet further tinnitus boosts is all too tempting to pass up, especially when it’s as expertly executed by Spiritualized’s Jason Pierce.<br /> <br /> Himself only having recently re-emerged following a life threatening bout of pneumonia, it’s little wonder his appearance causes the kind of thunderous applause that some groups struggle to coax in more sizable venues than tonight's.<br /> <br /> Whilst there’s little doubt who exactly commands the seven-piece group on stage and whom all eyes are permanently fixed, Pierce takes a sideways position furthest stage left, without managing to engage beyond a humble “thanks” all evening.<br /> <br /> Soaring<br /> <br /> But with melodies as soaring and enlivening as those found amongst the set tonight most can forgive this perceived arrogance.<br /> <br /> Whether it’s in the group’s cacophonous take on 'Amazing Grace', the cathartic healing of 'Ladies and Gentlemen We’re Floating In Space', or during recent single cut 'Soul On Fire' Pierce’s on stage command is masterful.<br /> <br /> But if the heart-rending melodies are moving the first few rows the swell of chatter throughout by those trying to re-live their own personal Brit-pop excess days threatens to ruin the good cheer for all, even a jaw dropping take on the Floyd-esque atmospherics of ‘Shine A Light’ doesn’t quieten the further reaches of the Academy.<br /> <br /> Come Together<br /> <br /> Though there are few voices that can be heard above the crushing highlight of ‘Come Together’; it’s simple seesaw riff and gradual deafening volume swell being kinda hard not to take notice of.<br /> <br /> And soon after he’s disappeared from the stage once again, and whilst little is said and no indication given to when he might return, Pierce’s vision is one worth waiting for.<br /> <br /> What did you think of Spiritualized's performance? Have your say.<br />