
The iconic Moody Blues blasted their way through a brilliant set to a sell-out crowd at the Liverpool Philharmonic last night.
The tall and lanky Justin Hayward, dressed all in white, still has his trademark strong resonant and haunting voice that enveloped the packed hall.
With Justin Hayward, John Lodge and Graeme Edge and backing musos, this band still rocks! For guys now in their 60s, with Edge at 69, their verve and energy was amazing – and totally thrilling.
One of the most enduring and consistent groups in the world, The Moody Blues and their remarkable music has enthralled generations of fans since the 1960s. Having generated over 55 million sales throughout the world the guys are still carrying on their magical musical legacy.
With the creators of classic symphonic rock anthems like Nights In White Satin, they are a band with an enviable repertoire and reputation, and remain one of the top-grossing album and touring bands in existence.
At the Phil they kicked off with the The Voice, the second single released from their 1981 album Long Distance Voyager and quickly romped into The Day We Meet Again, the Hayward penned track, and title of their present tour which has taken them all over the USA and the UK.
This latest tour celebrates the 40th anniversary of Question being at the top of the charts, and the release of the Isle of White 1970 festival DVD.
The award-winning band was bathed in multi-faceted light, with psychedelic swirling images on the auditorium walls that added to the ambience of the warm rich harmonies that swamped the hall.
Backdrop images of the band in their younger days, on tour, at the Isle of Wight, and with various line-ups, mingled with more swirling and multi-coloured auras behind them – adding to the magical vibe.
The Moodies’ distinctive sound was foregrounded with a selection of songs from their massive back catalogue including the multi million seller Days of Future Passed, their second official album (1967). Amongst the many rock numbers they slowed it down for a handful of slower melodies including Lean on Me (1991)and Never Comes the Day from the 1969 Threshold of a Dream album.
However no gig from this unique band would be complete without the world-wide hit Nights in White Satin and Question (of Balance) with which they ended a night of fabulous music, to climactic acclaim and a standing ovation from the packed crowd.
Let’s hope it’s not too long before they return to Liverpool. Next week would not be too soon!
10/10
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geoff gill, liverpool around 1 year, 8 months ago