Glen Matlock & The Philistines. Yales Central Station, Wrexham.
Thursday 18th August 2011.
(support to Big Country).

It was over nine years ago since I last visited this venue – to see Glen in Dead Men Walking. Mike Peters, also a part of Dead Men Walking, was back here too, as lead singer in the recently resurrected Big Country. But, in 2011, The Philistines are the reason for my return.

There was a big crowd in tonight; it can’t have been far short of a sell out. When The Philistines came on stage, there was the customary scene – a smattering of punters at the front of the stage, people stood around the sides, and those at the bar. Born Running tore out of the speakers and the forty-five minute rip-roaring set had begun, kicking the evening into life. The crowd showed their approval by quickly filling the dance floor and making plenty of noise. There was instant appreciation here, and no doubt many converts. But is it any surprise?

With a great line up, these guys make it seem effortless, fun, and thrilling. Listen to James Stevenson’s lead guitar prowess combined with Jim Lowe’s aggressive rock ‘n’ bass – a fantastic combination. Dave Donley is the custodian of the drum duties in Javier Weyler’s absence, and he’s good, very good in fact. He knows his stuff and even afforded himself a spin of a drum stick a la Clem Burke. Flash!

The backing girls add another dimension to the live shows: Tracie Hunter,  Maggi Ronson and Elizabeth Westwood lend class, giving the songs the depth they deserve. The Philistines are more than four lads on stage making a noise. Much more. Just listen to what the girls bring to Hey Mister. Already a classic, the song befitted the full backing that embellished it tonight.

Somewhere Somehow, Timebomb, Nowheresville, and Hard Work are a tour de force; powerful, tuneful rockers. All different, all scintillating, and all hits tonight. Glen, free of his bass duties, underpinned the proceedings with stylish rhythm guitar, and another strong vocal performance. Glen worked the crowd with Idiot and Yeah Right; there was no shortage of people wanting to get involved and shout back the song titles as instructed. The fact they did it on cue was a bonus. With the dance floor now full, another successful night was assured.

Stepping Stone - seemingly faster than the Sex Pistols version - was followed by the closing On Something and Rattle Your Cage. Two incredible songs - I will continue to sing their praises for ever more.

Likewise, I’ve said it before, and I’ll do so again, The Philistines are a great rock ‘n’ roll band. They did sound vital tonight. How good were they? I didn’t hear a single shout for Pretty Vacant. I DID hear a packed venue appreciating what they had witnessed.  

Nine years since Glen’s last appearance at Yales Central Station, Wrexham. Not sure where the time went, but between visits he has amassed cracking material and a cracking band.

Review and photographs by Phil Singleton (19th August 2011)

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