Written by Mark Playle

When I spotted the Happy Mondays 30th anniversary tour poster up on the wall at the Roundhouse Camden I thought wow. I remember going to see them at the Brixton Academy in the late 90’s and seeing them play alongside Oasis at Wembley Stadium.

I’d also recently started to read Shaun Ryder’s autobiography and remembered the whole Mondays thing was so much more than just a stage performance. Having seen in recent years the movie “24 Hour party people” which was about the madness of the Mondays and their record label and the early days, I was keen to see them once more and embrace the music.

As it turned out the gig at the Roundhouse passed me by although my mate went and got a photo with him and Shaun. To my surprise a second chance popped up and Andrew and I found ourselves headed to the Olympia in Liverpool. As I trundled up North in the silver dream machine I was humming the the tune “Step On” for which I love & love the original video which I’ve watched on Youtube many times.

Andrew and I landed outside the venue which was buzzing and there was a great vibe amongst the fans. It somehow felt more appropriate seeing the Mondays not far from their original stomping ground of Manchester. The venue was perfect – like an old musical hall theatre and the stage lighting and back drop was great, giving a real air of the Mondays. When the band came on stage the reception from the fans was spot on.

Shaun was in good spirits and proceeded to work his way through a phenomenal set list including many early numbers. Bez was on top top form with his moves and grooves as was the band & Rowetta’s vocals.

The whole performance was top drawer and from start to finish  – there was huge energy, enthusiasm, humour and raw Mondays uniqueness. We came away feeling completely satisfied that the Happy Mondays had provided a more than Happy Friday night out!

Related Posts