LIVE REVIEW: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds at Royal Albert Hall

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust, Royal Albert Hall Credit: John Stead
Credit: John Stead

The 24th year of Teenage Cancer Trust marks a poignant moment as Roger Daltrey, CBE, from The Who, prepares to step down as its curator after 2024. Over its tenure, this vital charity has amassed over £32 million, supporting 28 specialized hospital units across England.

XS Noize is honoured to have reviewed numerous performances supporting Teenage Cancer Trust, featuring artists such as Liam Gallagher, The Levellers, Madness, and Kasabian. The 2024 lineup boasts Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and Blossoms.

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust, Royal Albert Hall Credit: John Stead
Credit: John Stead

Noel Gallagher, a stalwart supporter of Teenage Cancer Trust, showcased his artistic evolution during his performance. Clad in his iconic black leather jacket, Gallagher opened with “Pretty Boy” from his recent album, Council Skies. The serene melody transitioned seamlessly into an electrifying chorus, captivating the audience. His adept lyricism, particularly evident in verses about star signs, earned him praise. Subsequent tracks from Council Skies further cemented Gallagher’s status as a solo artist, with the Royal Albert Hall echoing his melodies in unison.

Gallagher’s setlist masterfully balanced new material with cherished Oasis classics. Opting for acoustic renditions of Oasis B-sides like “Going Nowhere” and “Half the World Away,” accompanied by a brass section, he evoked nostalgia while showcasing his band’s versatility. Notably, his reinterpretation of Liam-sung Oasis hits like “Stand by Me” and “Whatever” demonstrated his musical dexterity.

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust, Royal Albert Hall Credit: John Stead
Credit: John Stead

What set Gallagher apart was his avoidance of the expected. By eschewing tracks from Oasis’ debut album, he showcased a broader spectrum of his repertoire, surprising the audience with his selection. Closing the main set with a spirited cover of Dylan’s “Quinn the Eskimo (The Mighty Quinn),” Gallagher ensured an electrifying encore, culminating in the iconic “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” The Royal Albert Hall erupted in euphoria, marking a fitting conclusion to a memorable evening.

Please visit here to learn more and donate to Teenage Cancer Trust.

 

Xsnoize Author
Michael Barron 340 Articles
Michael first began writing whilst studying at university; reviewing the latest releases and live gigs. He has since contributed to the Fortean Times as well as other publications. Michael’s musical tastes vary from Indie to psychedelic, folk and dubstep.

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