Album Review: Blossoms - Live from the Plaza Theatre, Stockport

Full-album shows have almost become a rite of passage for bands in recent years. Fans seem to be drawn to both the familiarity and excitement that comes with hearing a much-loved album in a live setting. In this homecoming set, Blossoms play their 2020 number one album Foolish Loving Spaces in full, followed by three of their earlier hits.

The live rendition of recent single ‘If You Think This Is Real Life’ is the perfect opener to Live from the Plaza Theatre, Stockport  - as Blossoms deliver high energy and immaculate rhythm. All elements of the band’s sound blend together effortlessly. Combining their skill with the quality of the recording, you might be forgiven for wondering if this really is a ‘real life’ performance.

Live albums can sometimes feel indulgent but this steers clear of that, with Blossoms having acquired a loyal fan base primarily due to their incredible live performances. The set is highly atmospheric, and no track sticks out as being weaker than the rest. Blossoms are consistent without being formulaic – they know what works for them, but each track brings something new to the album.

Frontman Tom Ogden’s enthusiasm is palpable in his greeting to the crowd - “Good evening Stockport, we are obviously Blossoms from Stockport”.  Blossoms’ repartee with their local fans throughout the gig is great to hear.

2019 single ‘Your Girlfriend’ is second on the setlist – it could easily be clichéd, but instead the catchy track is enhanced by richly textured backing vocals. Joe Donovan’s drum intro to third track ‘The Keeper’ is swiftly joined by Myles Kellock on keyboard, adding variety to Blossoms’ guitar-led sound. Bassist Charlie Salt is consistently strong, particularly in ‘Oh No (I Think I’m In Love)’.

‘At Most a Kiss’ is perhaps the strongest live rendition on the album and it peaks with a glittering riff from lead guitarist Josh Dewhurst, before coming to an electric crescendo.  As the show draws to a close with fan favourite ‘Charlemagne’, it is clear that Blossoms’ brand of pleasing indie pop will continue to see the band go from strength to strength.

Words: Rosie Crabbe