Status Quo

A wall of Marshall amps screams ‘Spinal Tap’ and this gig had its share of Tap moments (Parfitt’s golden mane: St. Hubbins, surely!?).  But there the comedy ended, as this band is at its apex, far from the sneering three-chord criticisms of old. Rossi is that oxymoron of outstanding, yet understated, lead guitarist and Parfitt’s right arm worked overtime on rhythm. Gig highlight; ‘In The Army Now’ and surprisingly not the familiar (yet fantastic) riffy rockers. Rick may have undergone a quadruple heart bypass in ’97 and Francis may now cut the frailer figure, but this ten-plus gig showed the Quo tickers are still tocking.

Brighton Centre, 13 December 2013

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