Richard Ashcroft: Robin Park, Wigan

Richard Ashcroft | Distribution
Robin Park, Wigan
July 20, 2024

Richard’s comeback gig at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena was a night to remember. It’s been 26 years since the former Verve frontman last played in his hometown at the height of the band’s fame in 1998, and despite the pouring rain it promised to be something really special – a hometown celebration of Ashcroft, of which he said. it has the potential to be a hub for the arts in the North West of England.

Liverpool band Distribution were tasked with warming up the crowd and gave it their all during a lively show despite the pouring rain which included classics such as Sandstorm, Walkaway and Alright and new single Faraway.

Then it was show time – and Richard Ashcroft stormed onto the stage looking every inch the rockstar in a dazzling sequined jacket that only served to highlight her magnetic stage presence – a beacon of both style and substance. The opening notes of Hold On filled the air and we felt like we were about to witness something truly special. Space In Time was next, followed by crowd favorite Sonnet. This was followed by a rousing rendition of Music Is Power from his third solo album Keys To The World.

The energy on stage and in the crowd was electric, which really shows the power of the music as by this point in the show everyone was soaked to the bone from the pouring rain. A more melancholic Weeping Willow followed and then we were treated to a phenomenal performance of the less played Science of Silence from 2002’s Human Conditions. Song For Lovers was next and then an energetic rendition of Break The Night With Color – which showcased the technical skills and musicianship of guitarist Steve Wyreman – and the audience joined in with every word.

Rounding out the main setlist were Drugs Don’t Work and Lucky Man, both of which sounded amazing and were well received by the crowd, but for me they were pretty predictable ‘safe’ choices.

The encore kicked off with 2016 solo single They Don’t Own Me, followed by the Verve classic History – which made full use of the strings that were on stage tonight and was another surprise song on the setlist. The night ended, again somewhat predictably, with the Bittersweet Symphony – however, it has to be said that whenever you hear this song, it’s always full of raw intensity.

There’s been a lot of fan talk lately about Richard Aschroft’s concert setlists – namely, the fact that they don’t seem to change. I’d have to agree – you already know what songs you’re sure to hear and that the night will end on Bittersweet Symphony, and this show was no exception. I felt that Richard acknowledged this complaint a bit tonight by mixing in some rarer songs, but I definitely feel that with such an amazing, varied and extensive catalog he could definitely mix up the set list a bit more .

Despite this, and despite the relentless rain, the night was a masterclass of passion and energy both individually and collectively, and Richard’s vocals were at their best. If you’re heading to Round 2 tonight, you’re in for a treat – especially if the sun is shining.

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Words by Natalie Royle, you can find her author profile here.

All photos by Melanie Smith – Louder Than War | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | portfolio