Interpol / Surfer Blood

The story behind Interpol's fourth, self-titled album is a curious one. Having completed the album, the band announced that their stylish and charismatic bass player, Carlos D, had left the band. The album itself, whilst well received, hasn't been as lauded as their previous efforts. Yet, there are whispers that the band, as a live outfit, are in the form of their lives. So quite what's in store here tonight at the Birmingham Academy is somewhat of a mystery.

Before Interpol take to the stage, support band Surfer Blood fill the venue up with their infectious and lovable melodies. They're an interesting contrast to Interpol's sparser, atmospheric arrangements, but leave the crowd in high spirits. Whilst in years gone by, their set would have been incongruous with tonight's main set, as Interpol take to the dimly lit stage and they open their set with 'Success', the signs are that this is a band with a new sense of purpose.

There's a massive surge forward in the crowd as the band launch immediately into 'Say Hello To The Angels', taken from their debut album. It may sound cruel, but with two new additions to their line-up, it's easy to forget Carlos D's absence. His replacement, Dave Pajo, lurks in the shadows, remaining statuesque for the whole set, not missing a note, whilst former Secret Machines frontman Brandon Curtis on keyboards adds to the dark, yet strangely uplifting atmosphere.

Although they are often noted for their icy cool, the connection with the audience is particularly noticeable tonight. Yes, they are smothered in dark light, but you can still see Paul Bank's grin through the shadows, whilst guitarist Daniel Kessler skips and shimmies for a good two hours. There's a sense of vulnerability too, as they play 'Rest My Chemistry', never has something so personal sounded so huge. The tenderness doesn't last long though, as fan-favourite 'Slow Hands' goes down incredibly well, with the crowd screaming every word back at the band.

Although a number of old songs are showcased tonight, it's worth remembering that the band are touring their new album 'Interpol', and it's the album's centrepiece 'Lights' which proves to be the evening's highlight. Relentlessly building to a glorious climax, it's one of those moments that few bands manage to achieve during their live shows – that moment where the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It's a truly affecting moment and proof that their latest album was definitely underestimated.

The main set closes with an upbeat double-salvo of 'PDA' and 'Not Even Jail', leaving the crowd begging and chanting for more. Whilst waiting for their return to the stage, somebody yells for 'Untitled' and 'The New'. That man gets his wish, and it seems he isn't alone – they may be slower moments in the band's set, but judging by the crowd's roar, they're the most welcome. Finishing off with 'The Heinrich Manoeuvre' is pretty much the perfect way to finish an incredible set. A rousing finale, leaving most of the crowd bruised and battered.

As they leave the stage, having won over any doubters, it dawns on everybody that they actually missed out two of their biggest songs. We didn't hear 'Evil' nor 'Obstacle 1'. There's a brief moment of disappointment, but in actual fact, it didn't even matter. It's a sign of where Interpol are as a band that they can play a stunning set for two hours whilst refusing to play some of their biggest hits.

With the arrival of their first album, Interpol helped to shape the landscape of alternative music in the last decade. Where they go from here now, is anybody's guess. But one thing's for sure, they are still a force to be reckoned with.

FUTURE GIGS

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