It’s bitter outside that’s for sure, but inside a bustling sold-out QMU the temperature is rising as the crowd gathers to see the indomitable Baxter Dury.
Baxter is touring his latest release I Thought I Was Better Than You. The record is more personal in tone than his previous dark character driven narratives. Musically it continues Baxter Dury’s arresting approach to music with a clear hip-hop influence but also taking ques from new wave disco; often short songs locking into beat and rhythm, bursts of what sometimes sound like samples of guitars and keyboard with melody often supplied by female backing vocals and Baxter’s gruff voice painting poetic pictures.
Tonight, Baxter and co are supported by OneDa a lively Manchester based rap group. They are a powerful presence on stage, with the rappers frequently bouncing off each other verses to thrilling effect. Playing songs from their new EP; Pussy Power, the opening set is well received. It’s not long after this Baxter Dury take to the stage, first band enter and the music begins before the applause swells again as the frontman arrives on stage. Opener is So Much Money from the new album, showcasing its personal touch with references to his background and this followed by the older Leak at the Disco.
The old and new songs blend in seamlessly throughout the gig, helped by an excellent turn from backing vocalist and keyboardist, Fabienne Debarre. Fabienne has the perfect delicate voice to accompany and contrast with Baxter’s more guttural utterances, which are less polished live than on record. This rougher live edge and Baxter’s lively stage crafts adds a thrilling anything could happen air to proceedings.
The loose and fun vibe continues Baxter is an arresting, charismatic presence on stage, milking adulation from the crowd, teasing to take his jacket off, dancing with the mic stand and playing with his scarf. Always inviting crowd participation, particularly on the dense dub influenced Aylesbury Boy, with the crowd loudly participating during the chorus. Loving the crowd’s energy Baxter gives plenty back. Prowling the stage from left to right and primitively screaming the one-word chorus “YAH”.
Crowd favourites such as the tense yet propelling I’m Not Your Dog and the infectious Palm Trees lead to mass singalongs. While Miami showcases the wry dry humour of Baxter’s lyrics. After that Baxter leaves the stage, no one is any doubt that the band deserve an encore.
The encore begins with catchy Celebrate Me the lead single from I Thought I Was Better Than You which again has an arresting juxtaposition of Baxter’s irreverent lyrics and meldious backing vocals from Fabienne. Then an excellent run through of early single Cocaine Man. The set is then closed with the tone changing rave Baxter (these are my friends) which seems to have everyone in the crowd dancing in unison. It’s a powerful and apt closer for show that never let up in momentum or quality. Showcasing the supreme gifts and talent of Baxter Dury and his backing band. The highlight being the wonderful contrast and balance provide by the duelling voices of Baxter Dury and backing vocalist Fabienne.
Words by Ben Lamont @badphotosfromgoodgigs
Pictures by Elliot Hetherton @elliothetherton