REVIEW: SHAUN RYDER AT WESTLANDS IN YEOVIL (08/10/11)
Shaun Ryder sets the scene as soon as he walks off his tour bus asking: “So where is the cricket pitch then, I thought I was playing The Oval?” Once it had been explained that he was actually in Yeovil, he commented saying “I’ve never been to Cornwall,” and “I thought The Oval was a big venue to be doing.”
Westlands Leisure Complex is the setting, for the man, the legend, Shaun Ryder. Well known as a musician, television personality, author, columnist, actor and illustrious member of The Happy Mondays/Black Grape. His foul-mouthed antics and somewhat invisible nature promised a night to be remembered. In recent years Shaun has raised his profile by finishing second in ITV’s “Celebrity Get Me out of Here”, as well as collaborating with the Gorillaz and Russell Watson.
Earlier this year, unfortunately, Shaun had to cancel live dates, due to being prescribed wrong medication for a thyroid condition and was extremely disappointed to let down his fans. There was an air of anticipation and uncertainty of what to expect from the man who is notorious for his crazy antics and rock n roll life style; surviving addictions, attempts on his life and depression. With a 16-year gap in his memory will he be the “Shaun Ryder” we have grown to know?
An excited crowd looked on as the band took to the stage including ex “Happy Mondays” bassist Mikey Shine who passionately got the show on the road with a familiar groove. Eventually taking centre stage with a bewildered demeanour was Shaun Ryder. This is where he remained for the rest of the show and lacked an element of charisma and an overall casual performance. This did not disappoint his dedicated fans who were treated with well-loved tracks – Kellys Heroes, Reverend Black Grape, Step on, Dare, Kinky Afro and 24 hour party people. Step On proved to be a big highlight for the Yeovil crowd and appeared to please Ryder as Mikey Shine played every bassline with energy, feeling and looking absorbed by the music.
The mixture of jangly rock, house, funk, northern soul and hip hop, created a strong foundation for the Saturday night as the ‘Madchester-vibed’ crowd were there to party. Ryder’s lyrics were sung and mumbled in a hoarse and rasping voice lacking some tone but this was to be expected and is part of his signature presence on stage.
Yeovil’s Westland Leisure Complex is a venue set for many more live acts and events. It impressed with superb sound, stage and lighting of the highest quality.
Opening the show, was the South West rock band “Empire Of Fools”. Their performance showed that they were born to perform and suited to entertaining on the big stage. Having previously shared the stage with many acts including the likes of Status Quo and The Damned, the energetic outfit has a great live sound coupled with strong material. They are definitely a band to keep an eye on.
Following “Empire Of Fools” was the Taunton based band “Marshal Town” whose performance included a short drum solo, entertaining the crowd before the headliners were ready. They appeared genuine and proud to be performing, entertaining a local following.
Shaun Ryder arrived, performed and walked off during the outro of the final song. A mumbled “bye” signaled the night’s end. Ryder appeared humbled by the performance and a lively Yeovil crowd were treated to a musical legend gracing the stage in their home town. Everyone went home on a high. The general consensus was – he performed better than expected and that the legend of Shaun Ryder still lives on.
Words and photo: Mark Pascall
