It never ceases to amaze me the number of things that can affect a show (weather, venue, audience, etc.) and that despite all of it band can pull out a great show. Maybe it all comes down to chemistry on stage.
While the current lineup of Squeeze has been together for only about 2 years, they appear to have developed a chemistry that belies that short time together. Perhaps its a testament to the quality of the songs or the friendship and songwriting partnership of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook.
Their hour and a half set was packed with classic songs and the crowd were on their feet from the opening notes of “Black Coffee in Bed”. They didn’t throw any curves or unexpected songs into the set. They sounded tight and rehearsed without being stale or staid. Their harmonies were solid and Tilbrook’s tenor was as clear as ever.
Concerts by bands having fun onstage are always more fun – Squeeze honestly seemed to be having fun. I know the audience was.
Setlist:
Black Coffee in Bed
Take Me, I’m Yours
Annie Get Your Gun
When the Hangover Strikes
Loving You Tonight
If It’s Love
It’s So Dirty
Goodbye Girl
Hope Fell Down
If I Didn’t Love You
Cool for Cats
Is That Love
Someone Else’s Heart
Up the Junction
Hourglass
Slap and Tickle
Tempted
Encore:
Some Fantastic Place
Another Nail in my Heart
Pulling Muscles (From the Shell)