by
Rob Jones
We take a look back at a brilliant night in the extensive files of Buzzcocks – as we pay tribute to band leader Pete Shelley who sadly passed away on 6th December 2018. Pete was a punk legend, fine lyricist, supreme songwriter and excellent performer (with even the aforementioned credits not doing him full justice!).
Buzzcocks 40th Anniversary tour at The Tramshed, Cardiff 13th February 2016 (the last but one visit by the band to the Welsh capital)……….
Punk originals Buzzcocks scored with a series of potent power pop produce-and, the halcyon period of 1976-1979 had the band make a significant impact upon both the singles and album charts. Those yesteryears are made extra special in 2016 as Buzzcocks mark their 40th anniversary. A four-decade landmark has this influential band set out on tour and the Tramshed, Cardiff welcomed the famous four-piece.
Buzzcocks veterans Pete Shelley (vocals/guitar) and Steve Diggle (vocals/guitar) are joined by Danny Farrant (drums) plus Chris Remington (bass). This musically well-honed quartet present a colossal collection of soaring songs and an evening in the exalted company of Buzzcocks is guaranteed enjoyment!
In a set of around ninety minutes over two dozen dynamic tunes were fired from the stage and apart from a momentary pause prior to the encore, there was no respite from an arsenal of aural artillery! The anthems are aplenty and these magic moments revive memories of Shelley and Diggle promoting their prowess on Top of the Pops (many, many moons ago!). Shelley now resembles a garden gnome and Diggle sports the Grecian 2016 look but nobody can dispute their vibrant ability to entertain! To add to which the other two sonic sidekicks (who have now been on board the good ship Buzzcocks for several years) help maintain the momentum with a solid beat.
Diggle is a showman and his pseudo-Townsend guitar athletics display an energy that should be the domain of a much younger man-but, fair play there cannot be another musician who enjoys himself as much!
Shelley is more reserved but a solid shift confirms that he is the key component when it comes down to sublime songwriting skills.
If you have not got the Singles Going Steady album please do yourself a massive favour and get a copy immediately-and, if you have not had the chance to witness the pearls of this product on a stage then buy a Buzzcocks concert ticket soon!
These boys offered yours truly far more than one Harmony in my Head. An aim to isolate highlights is a fruitless exercise because there is not a dip in standards-and, even the post 70’s material hits home with aplomb. Buzzcocks we Love you More with each and every day!
2019 NB A great gig – one of many which I attended including a 2006 one within RCT as Buzzcocks lit up The Muni, Pontypridd with their skills. However, for now, we reminisce while also saying – Pete Shelley RIP.
