'God is a DJ' quickly followed as the set developed a kind of rhythm reminiscent of past performances. The lack of seats at the back meant that (according to Mr Jazz) 2000 extra people were crammed compared to December 2006 when Faithless last graced Glasgow with their blend of electro dance beats and heavy base guitar.
The night continued with a powerful rendition of 'Mass Destruction' sung at a slightly slower pace than in past tours enabling the crowd to attempt to keep up with the lyrics and make the words even more poignant. Break down the lyrics in this song and it's powerful stuff that could brighten the curriculum in any classroom debate or university lecture hall.
The crowd at Faithless gigs always reminds me of the mix you get at summer festivals in the UK. The age profile is wide ranging, but definitely weighted into, the late 20's or early 30's, which can be explained by the fact that this brand are well into their second decade of existence. Add to the crowd thousands of youngsters discovering Faithless and a hard core of way out folk who were probably raving in the original incarnation of dance music in the late 80's and you've got a real eclectic mix.
Part of the appeal of Faithless is their ability to keep a highly popular set of global classics and a continually evolving concept with rolling guest vocalists over the years such as Dido, Rhianna Kenny and new incumbent Cass Fox. The absence of Rhianna's vocals at the start of Salva Meo was a miss, however the cutting powerful voice of Cass Fox's rendition of 'Music Matters' made up for it. As mentioned before, part of the appeal is the fact they move and blend new talent into their shows.
Gradually making the transition from guest vocalist to an integral part of Faithless is Leigh Kenny aka LSK. Whether he stays around for another album is unknown. While he sings with them he definitely adds to the act and the energy.
The gig continued with some of the new tracks from the new album. 'To all new arrivals' and 'Hope and Glory' were the pick of the new stuff which sounded amazing in the live setting.
Every time I've seen Faithless in Scotland Maxi Jazz always remarks about the devotion of the Scottish fans. 'You're the best fans in the country' he shouts near the end of the set. Whether or not he says this at all the dates on the tour is irrelevant. The crowd go wild.
The highlight was the energetic rendition of 'I want more' by maxi and LSK. This track sums up what's best about the current Faithless line up. Building the scene is the dramatic sounds Sister Bliss creates from her synth set. Maxi's creative ability as a rapper and vocalist is complemented well by the lyrics and voice of LSK. It all works well together. You'll struggle to find anyone else who puts as much energy into raising a crowd and energetic dancing as LSK shows during 'I want more'.
The end of Faithless concerts are something of a ritual, which does not age. 'We come One' is always played very near the end of every set and tonight was no different, except Maxi took the time to quickly induct the newbie's to the phenomenon in the art of throwing your right hand up in the air while shouting 'we come one' at the top of your voice.
Judging by the amount of hands that went up when Maxi asked who had never been to a Faithless gig before is testament to the bands longevity. Thousands of new fans as well as the throngs of people in the audience who have probably been on board from the start will ensure that this team keep at the top of their game.
They continue to have mass appeal throughout the world. They are already confirmed to headline the Wireless festival in June. No doubt more festival appearances will follow.
article by: Greg Forbes
photos by: Greg Forbes
published: 22/03/2007 17:15
FUTURE GIGS
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