Liam Gallagher plays Definitely Maybe in full at the O2 Arena

It is now 30 years since Liam Gallagher was rock’s enfant terrible – when, love him or hate him, Oasis’ frontman is one of the defining figures of the Britpop era.

The band’s debut (and for my money best) album, Definitely Maybe, is as old today as The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night was when the former was released. This means Gallagher is no longer an exciting upstart but a heritage act. But what a heritage act. Performing that album in full, he gives it a new lease of life as a solo artist.

While there may be fewer functioning follicles and more distended stomachs in the crowd than there would have been 30 years ago, the passage of time hasn’t dimmed the excitement. Gallagher’s voice seems an octave lower–- and some of the highest notes are now bypassed – but there’s a real sense of excitement in the air among what isn’t the stereotypical beery, lairy Oasis crowd.

The night starts with what is arguably the singer’s signature tune – Rock ‘n’ Roll Star – followed swiftly by the thumping refrain of Columbia, and the Mancunian psychedelia of Shakermaker. This is no aging rocker belting out bad versions of old material, but songs that have been carefully reworked with strings and backing singers to suit where he is now – yet still give fans the sugar rush from the tracks they love. It’s also great to see ex-Oasis guitarist Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs reunite with Gallagher after a battle with cancer.

From there we meander through the album, from Up in the Sky, through the quirky interlude of Digsy’s Dinner to the booze-soaked anthem Cigarettes & Alcohol. With some breaks for much-loved B-sides and singles, like Half the World Away, (It’s Good) to Be Free, D’Yer Wanna Be a Spaceman, and Whatever, along the way.

It’s the encore though that really caps the night. Supersonic sparks a cacophony of delight from Gallagher’s audience, while fan favourite Slide Away keeps them there. Live Forever then takes things into the stratosphere, while as an extra treat, Gallagher closes with a cover of The Beatles’ I Am the Walrus.

Oasis and its frontman have always had their cheerleaders and detractors. One feels that often both are right. They are not a gourmet musical meal but a late-night kebab – and sometimes that’s delicious.

In fact, Liam Gallagher has turned what is perhaps Oasis’ most accomplished album into a compelling live set by giving it more care and attention than many acts reliving past glories. As a result, he ensures that fans go home, or to their local lamb doner emporium, thoroughly satisfied.

Mark Worgan
Photos: Mike Garnell

For further information and future events visit Liam Gallagher’s website here.

Watch the video for Live Forever here: