2024/02/14 – The Libertines – The Underground, Stoke

Review & Photos: G. Rossington.

A cold and wet Valentine’s Day evening at The Underground in Stoke was a certainly night to remember as The Libertines arrived in town to headline a sold-out show in support of their forthcoming new album ‘All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade’. Supported by rising bands Stanleys and The 76 Club. The venue, known for its intimate and gritty atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for a night of raw, passionate rock music.

The night kicked off with local heroes The 76 Club. Their energetic set was a fantastic opener, immediately engaging the crowd with their punchy rhythms and infectious melodies. Songs like ‘Burning Bridges’, ‘Beside Myself’ and forthcoming single ‘Ava’ showcased their knack for crafting catchy, anthemic rock tunes. Their stage presence was confident and vibrant, setting a high bar for the evening.

Next up was Wigan’s Stanleys, who brought a polished yet energetic performance to the stage. With their blend of indie rock and Britpop influences, they quickly won over the audience. Tracks like ‘A Better Life’ and ‘Look Back’ had the crowd swaying and singing along. The band’s tight musicianship and charismatic frontman made their set a standout, further amplifying the anticipation for the main act.

A couple of minutes post their 9pm start time, the lights dimmed and the crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch, The Libertines took the stage to thunderous applause. Kicking off their set with the classic ‘Up The Bracket’ which segued swiftly in to a feisty rendition of ‘Vertigo’. The band immediately demonstrated why they remain one of the most beloved acts in British rock. Peter Doherty and Carl Barât’s chemistry was as strong as ever with their vocals and guitars intertwining seamlessly.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of classic hits and deeper cuts. Fan favorites like ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ and ‘Time for Heroes’ had the entire venue singing along, creating a communal atmosphere that felt electric. The band also performed newer tracks such as ‘Gunga Din’ from their 2016 comeback album ‘Anthems For Doomed Youth’ and recent singles ‘Run, Run, Run’ and ‘Night of The Hunter’, which were met with enthusiastic reception, proving that their recent material holds up just as well as their iconic early work.

The Libertines’ musicianship was tight and electrifying throughout the night. Doherty and Barât’s vocal interplay and guitar work were as sharp as ever, while the rhythm section—comprising John Hassall on bass and Gary Powell on drums—provided a powerful and driving backbone. Their performance was marked by a raw energy and spontaneity that kept the audience on their toes.

Their stage presence was both chaotic and charismatic, with Peter and Carl’s playful banter and interaction with the audience adding a sense of unpredictability to the show. At one point just as they launched in to an anthemic rendition of ‘What Katie Did’, Carl Barât removes his trademark leather jacket and accepts a boquet of roses from an audience member that he proceeds to hold on to for the entirity of the song. This dynamic, coupled with their genuine connection to the audience, made for a compelling and immersive concert experience.

After a brief departure, The Libertines returned to the stage for a rousing encore. Amongst previewing forthcoming single ‘Oh Shit!’, there is even an unplanned cover of The Top Notes’ ‘Twist & Shout’ of course made famous by The Beatles. They performed ‘The Good Old Days’, a rare track from their debut album. But it is the final song, ‘Don’t Look Back In To The Sun’ that epitomizes their anarchic spirit and lyrical brilliance, which brings the concert to a euphoric close, leaving the crowd chanting for more.

The Libertines in Stoke was an exhilarating and unforgettable night of music. The combination of a legendary headliner, strong supporting acts, and an intimate venue created a powerful and vibrant experience. The raw energy and emotional depth of the performances resonated deeply with the audience, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day celebration for rock enthusiasts. In summary, The Libertines delivered a performance that was passionate, energetic, and nostalgically powerful, it was a night that reaffirmed the enduring appeal and relevance of The Libertines. An exceptional concert that left a lasting impression.