Gig Review: For Pete and the Pirates Sake! DANCE!

Pete and the Pirates, Brighton Komedia, 3rd October 2011

I love Pete and the Pirates. I wish everyone in the Komedia audience loved them as much as me. From the first beat, I wanted to bounce with joy. From the first beat I did bounce with joy. This is me. A nearby couple did the same, once in a while sharing that knowing smile. You know the one. This is it. This is what life is all about. Adoration was scribbled across our thankful faces. We are here, here is the best place to be on earth, and we are so incredibly lucky.

I was saddened that this was lost on the masses. What makes a great gig outstanding is a feeling of unity. People who watch bands, with ironing board backs, should stand far, far back, and render themselves outsiders.

When three perfect lads pushed their way forward, desperate to jump to the beat, my heart leapt in love. Two young. One older, perhaps as old as me. My heroes. My bouncing friends. How I love you. And how I love your adulation. You knew every single word.

Pete and the Pirates make joyous jangly indie-pop; the best kind of pop there is. I can drink it in bucket-loads, until my nostrils froth with fizz.

On a Monday night in autumn, Pete and Pirates didn’t miss a trick. They dressed well. They marched on the spot. They played songs both old and new. They mocked the encore. They were self-effacing. Finally, during the very last number, Tom, in his sweat-soaked shirt and slacks, took his guitar into the throng, and finally, yes FINALLY, the entire audience bounced.

Pete and the Pirates Set List
Little Gun
Mr Understanding
Cold Black Kitty
She Doesn’t Belong To Me
Knots
Winter 1
Can’t Fish
Lost in the Woods
Motorbike
United
Come to the Bar
--
Washing Powder
Blood Gets Thin

Fabpants Recommends:

If you have never heard Pete and the Pirates, get your hands on both albums today. Seriously, it will tickle your soul and feel you with cheer.

They are called ‘Little Death’ and ‘One Thousand Pictures’.

Here’s an old favourite:

Download MP3: Pete and the Pirates – Mr Understanding (theburningear.com)







And the wonderful new earworm: