The Black Keys are a band that has been around for more than 20 years, developing and expanding their sound to include everything from indie rock to alternative and punk blues. The band played one of the first gigs at the newly opened O2 Academy Brixton, which was closed for more than a year after an audience collapse at an Asake gig left two people dead and a third seriously injured.
But after much consideration the venue has been allowed to reopen, and after a few tribute band shows to warm the venue up again, the O2 Academy Brixton is playing some big names, with more booked for later in the year. On Tuesday night (May 7th) my boyfriend and I went to Brixton for Black Key’s first gig at the venue.
A new queuing system has been introduced to enter the building, there is now a long circular walk designed to facilitate the flow of people and reduce the risk of crushing injuries. It seemed effective, especially at 8.30pm, normally a popular time to come to a gig.
I had never been to O2 Academy Brixton before but was impressed with the speed and efficiency of the cloakroom – £2 per item. There are also plenty of bars on the first floor and then in the standing area of the stalls as well. One of the things that sets this venue apart is the floor plan for standing giggoers, and as someone who is 5’4 this is an excellent innovation and should be implemented everywhere.
But to the gig. A few power chords and the introduction to I Got Mine heralded the arrival of The Black Keys on stage, along with several backing musicians to create the duo’s iconic, indie-rock sound. This sound was at its best during the band’s more rock-heavy songs – only on one occasion, during a much quieter song than all the others, did the energy drop significantly.
But singer/guitarist Dan Auerbach’s vocals and guitar playing were captivating, especially during inspired guitar solos, and a duet that gave me goosebumps. The catchy song of Gold on the Ceiling had people singing along while later, with the crowd loose and happy, they screamed the words to Howlin for You.
I’m a casual Black Keys fan, having recently discovered them, so many of the songs they played I just recognized. But one of the greatest tests of any live performance is to bring to life songs that people may never have heard before, and to make them want to go away and listen again.
The Black Keys, an American band, sometimes sound very British to me, with many similarities to the Arctic Monkeys and the Last of the Shadow Puppets. But during the gig, the band’s country influences really came through at times, combined with classic rock n’ roll.
However, some of the evening’s best performances were saved for last. The Black Keys brought out none other than Noel Gallagher to play two songs from their new album. Only Love Matters is a stunning but melodic banger that you can’t help but dance too, while On the Game is slower and heavier, although it is brought to life in the live performance.
The gig ended with Lonely Boy and everyone was jumping around like crazy, all with big grins on their faces. The Black Keys’ performance was infectious, and even though I didn’t know all the words, I jumped and sang along too.
Exiting the stalls was a bit of a challenge, with a huge mass of people making their way out of the building. It was especially difficult because I had to go against the current to reach the second floor to grab my coat, so if you have to separate from your friends, I would advise you to meet outside to avoid the large crowds.
The Black Keys have been around for years and have undoubtedly shaped indie rock music as it is today – but given the music they’re still producing, and the energy with which they perform, there’s plenty more to come.
The Black Keys play two more dates at the O2 Academy Brixton on May 8th and May 9th. Buy tickets from Ticketmaster here.
Do you have a story for us? Email anna.willis@reachplc.com.
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