Live: Funeral For A Friend at the Academy, Birmingham
Welsh emo-rockers Funeral For A Friend’s UK tour drew closer to the end with a sold out show at Birmingham Academy. This will be FFAF’s last tour in the UK before going to work on their third studio album following up from the successful Hours [2005].
Support acts: Fast Lane and Fightstar
Another Welsh rock band, Fast Lane, opened the set with hard-hitting, fast paced songs, warming the crowd up well before Fightstar played. Fightstar, London based post hardcore band, are fronted by former Busted boyband pin-up Charlie Simpson. With a list of number 1 hits with his former band, it’s obvious that his past wouldn’t be forgotten, as a small group of people chanted Busted 5 minutes before Fightstar hit the stage. However, the band was greeted with a great reception; songs such as Hazy Eyes and Paint Your Target were highlights of a good set.
FFAF
When Funeral emerged from the smoke and darkness with their album artwork lit up behind them, the floor was buzzing as the crowd erupted into cheers and salutes. Roses For The Dead opened followed by old favourite Juneau, and as the set went on, FFAF blended old tracks with new. Including the first song the band ever wrote, the masterfully written 10:45 Amsterdam Conversations. Trademark songs such as Streetcar, All The Rage and Rookie Of The Year were highlights, but arguably the best moment of the gig, and all FFAF gigs, was the sublime performance of History.
Led by Matt Davies and Gareth Davies, FFAF were clearly enjoying themselves, interacting well with the audience and always quick to make sure everyone was safe (appreciated by the crowd) and felt loved by the band. Never short of something to say, Matt was humorous throughout and having a good time, pointing out that FFAF no longer do encores, as they play until they can’t go on.
Verdict: This is the second time I’ve seen FFAF. Their display was as good as the first time, and cannot be faulted. Support was fitting, and the crowd was energetic. Sound qualities were poor during a few songs, and I found the venue to be less welcoming as other academies I have been to. However, these were just minor glitches in an otherwise great gig.