Back in 2014 there was political uncertainty in the air and England’s prospects at the World Cup didn’t look too promising - some things clearly don’t change.
Back then, Hardi-Fi concluded their tour with fans blissfully unaware it would be the last time they’d see them take to the stage for eight years. So, what a treat it was for the Suburban Knights to finally return at New Century Hall on Friday evening.
Reformed earlier this year, singer Richard Archer described the experience as ‘mega’ as he looked out upon the crowd packed into the newly-opened venue. The gig kicking off this weekend’s Neighbourhood Festival, being headlined on Saturday by Everything Everything and The Snuts, felt like it’ll forever hold a special place in the heart of the Staines frontman and his bandmates.
Read more: Everything Everything preview Neighbourhood Festival headline set
The venue's imposing lights shined down on the fans and band as they thrashed through their back catalogue which included hits from their Mercury Prize-nominated debut record Stars of CCTV. After something of an understated start, things really fell into place through airings of White Strips cover Seven Nation Army and Tied Up Too Tight.
Frontman Archer spoke of having a few butterflies in his stomach during the reunion show and they’d clearly settled by the mid-point in the set. That first Hard-Fi album was full of indie bangers and the crowd cheered louder and louder when those favourites got an airing.
By the time Archer, who made sure to chat with the audience throughout the night, brought his kazoo out things were very much flowing the way they should be. Cash Machine, still something of an urban anthem, prompted a deafening singalong from the crowd before the set concluded with Hard-Fi calling card Hard to Beat. An encore was always on the cards with Archer initially returning to the stage on his own taking to the keys for Move on Now.
It was apparent the evening meant a lot to Archer and Hard-Fi with the band often stopping for a second to take things in during their Manchester show. The frontman repeatedly asked ‘are you ready for this?’ ahead of set closer Living For The Weekend. In some regards a little on the nose but it also laid out the Neighbourhood Festival rather well with fans erupting with happiness to the song’s chorus.
Leaving the stage, Hard-Fi promised we wouldn't have to wait another eight years to see them. Many will be hoping they are true to their word.
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