Counting Crows at the Hammersmith Apollo

Formed way back in 1991, Californian seven-piece Counting Crows gained popularity after the release of their debut album August and Everything After, with lead single Mr Jones becoming a hugely successful hit. Since then, they’ve sold over 20 million albums and are now embarking on their first UK tour in over four years. An extra date was added in response to popular demand and the boys played at the Hammersmith Apollo on the night of the 23^rd April 2013. 

Gazing down from the red plush seats of the balcony, the standing area is swarming with the heads of fans eagerly awaiting Counting Crows’ return. The lights go down while Lean on Me plays in the background and the crowd is aglow with phones and cameras at the ready. Suddenly, the spotlight is on frontman Adam Duritz and his guitarist, as they open with the classic Round Here. Duritz gives an emotive and dramatic performance, acting out his lyrics, standing on amplifiers and bellowing with conviction. His troubled voice causes the hairs on the back of our necks to stand up. 

The lighting for this concert is particularly impressive, with coloured strobes flickering along to the beat of Hospital and the infectious Mrs Potter’s Lullaby. Guitars are heavily featured in the performance, with up to four on stage at one time. A variety of instruments are implemented by the multi-talented musicians, including an accordion, mandolin and banjo, which add a country element to their California rock sound. 

After a few less popular songs from the band’s back catalogue (that perhaps only dedicated fans would recognise), hit single Hanginaround rouses the drowsy crowd and many clap along to its beat whilst the seven vacate the stage. The audience is left in suspense, still anticipating the big hits for which Counting Crows are celebrated. Duritz finally returns for Holiday in Spain and declares: “This is our lullaby to you!” 

Before long, it really is the end of the show, but many fans are left confused and disappointed, chanting “ONE MORE SONG!” but to no avail. Although the expected bigger hits like Mr Jones, Big Yellow Taxi and Accidentally in Love were sadly not featured, Counting Crows put on a marvellous performance. 

Gemma Whitfield
Photos: Bartek Odias

For further information and future events visit Counting Crows’ website here.

Watch the video for Hanginaround here: