Public Service Broadcasting

Tonight was a benefit gig for James Borrer from So Recordings, who died of bowel cancer. Featuring Public Service Broadcasting, Big Special, Demob Happy and China Bears. The event was to raise bowel cancer awareness and to support Jame’s family. As a great gesture, the O2 Indigo and ticket agencies waved their fees.

It is a long time since I have been to the O2. Unusually for a big London venue, I managed to get a photo pass from the very helpful team around Public Service Broadcasting. I call out poor experiences, so I have to say how much of a pleasure it was to interact with PSB’s team. I should not have been surprised, given the guys seem like some of the nicest people in music.

Given an earlier than usual start time, China Bears and Demob Happy both did a great job of setting up the evening, although to a relatively quiet crowd. However, by the time Big Special came on, the Indigo had filled out. It was clear a significant number in the audience were there to see the Big Special. Who can blame them? The band are on fire. I know they won over some new fans tonight.

Big Special continue to impress me. No matter how big the stage is, they own it. I think Joe’s vocals are amazing. I guess because most of the time he isn’t singing, when he does, the quality of his voice is even more obvious. Callum continues to inject humour and infectious energy at all points. Given how strong their albums are, it wasn’t a surprise to see new material bed in so well and there was no weak moment in their set.

I don’t know how many times I have seen Public Service Broadcasting. It must be at least twenty times. I don’t go and see them as often as I used to, simply because they now play venues I don’t like. But they make everything look effortless and are great fun. Tonight we were treated to EERA joining them, who added her ethereal vocals to songs from the ‘The Last Flight’, which sounded stunning live.

If you can measure a person by the actions of their friends. On the evidence of tonight, James must have been a very special person.

To find out more about Bowel Cancer and to donate to their research and support, please visit Bowel Cancer UK