Merry Cribsmas.
The Cribs’ sold-out 5 night residency at the somewhat mythologized Brudenell Social Club was testament to the incredible spirit and adoration the band continue to invoke in their fans. Lucky enough to witness the carnage wrecked upon the Brudenell by The Cribs on the first night of the residency, I arrived with nothing but high hopes and several Cribs live-shows under my belt to fill me with confidence in tonights musical proceedings.
As expected, the night was a perfect example of why great guitar music continues to hold so many people together, amidst the political and social turmoil’s that are beginning to define our generation. Still as energetic and passionate as they were in their inception in the early 00s, The Cribs bought a much-needed dose of brilliance to Hyde Park; proving once again that they really are “too indie for punk, and too punk for indie”, seminal tracks such as ‘Men’s Needs’, Hey Scenesters!’ and ‘Don’t You Wanna Be Relevant?’ blended in perfectly with newer offerings; From ‘Come On Be A No-One’ to ‘For All My Sisters’, each song demonstrates the band’s never-ceasing relevance and raw talent.
A set filled with highlights and emotion, the Jarman brothers once again proved why they remain at the forefront of British indie music. Fan favourites ‘Be Safe’ and ‘We Can No Longer Cheat You’ united the eclectic, diverse crowd – each member roaring the lyrics back at the band in pure euphoria. A fitting close came in the form of the band’s ode to Wakefield, their childhood home, ‘I’ve Tried Everything’ bought the audience to its knees, each enjoying the show more than the next and roaring their regard for the ‘Merry City’ that had spawned the three brothers on stage.
I’ve considered this band my favourite live performer’s for years now, with each show being crazier, more emotional and personally significant than the last. The Cribs’ 2017 ‘Cribsmas’ was the highlight of my festive season, a stellar ode to Yorkshire, their loyal fan base, and guitar music in general. See you again next year, please?
Poppie Platt
Feature Image: Neat Beet