Gig Review: Love Will Come...

M83, at Brighton Concorde, 2 July 6th 2009

I thought that seeing M83 live might help me to reach a conclusion; am I an M83 fan or not? Having listened to a drunken student’s poor, and very loud, analysis of why people like myself taking the front row is all about economics and a ultimately benefit to everyone, I stood on that front row confused. His diatribe was not the cause.

M83 confound me. There were moments of rich, warm and pure brilliance. As the bass travelled though me and caressed my ageing innards, a heavy blanket of sound held me. This beautiful, safe place. This safe intro.

Then, discomfort. It came and it remained. The drummer sat in his own glass cage. Did he feel the same?

Silhouetted in the stage lights, the standing band looked striking. Truly. A band as a view. The female vocals were wondrously impressive. At times.

Was I enjoying myself?

At home, and away, M83 confuse me. Do I like them or not?

Maps’ rendition of 'Love Will Come' was most certainly pleasing. I wish I had caught the whole Maps set. If only I had checked the internet for the support act. I caught about seven tracks and weaved my way through a transfixed crowd. Love will come... It felt like it had. It's the support act that lives on best in my mind. MAPS MAPS MAPS.

Fabpants Recommends:
I recommend Maps - Love Will Come. The new Maps album 'Turning The Mind' is on the receiving end of a press panning. The BBC, NME and Drowned in Sound agree. The Independent likes it. Me? I'm still listening. These things take time.

Download MP3: Maps - Love Will Come (sorry, this link has died)