Sensational Stereophonics are magical in Thetford Forest
REVIEW: Stereophonics, High Lodge, Sunday
As far as music venues go, it is hard to beat High Lodge.
The unique natural arena possesses a touch of magic: there's nothing like watching great music while darkness falls over Thetford Forest. And never was this more true than when the Stereophonics took to the stage on Sunday.
The fourth act in this year's Forestry England's Forest Live concert series weekend received an enthusiastic welcome and from the off, it was evident we were about to see something a bit special.
Kelly Jones, Richard Jones, Jamie Morrison, Tony Kirkham and Adam Zindani did not miss a beat in the almost two-hour set, banging out hit after hit while also giving insight into the band's Welsh roots, with frontman Kelly recalling how family bathtimes inspired him to make up tunes in his head and forged an early love of songwriting.
Meanwhile, a break from familiar Stereophonics anthems came when Patty Lynn, from support act The Wind and the Wave, joined the band for an uplifting rendition of Tom Petty song Stop Draggin' My Heart Around.
But soon it was back to crowd-pleasing tunes and the longer they played, the more it hit home just how good the Stereophonics are (and how long they've been making music). From Handbags and Gladrags, Just Lookin', Hurry Up and Wait to Have a Nice Day, the energy and pace never dropped.
The sensational set ended with Dakota. And on leaving the venue, I knew I'd finally seen a Forest Live act even more magical than the setting.
The Stereophonics play High Lodge for Forestry England's Forest Live concert series on Sunday (12890311)
