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Status Quo are fantastically cool.

Playing a solid 24 song set, followed by a three song encore; Status Quo rocked the slightly too high socks of an audience that must have averaged an age of 50-55 years old but even the most indie of indie-kids would have struggled to not have fun at a Quo gig. However, you would struggle to find a hipster who would have enjoyed The Screaming Jets’ supporting set. Solidifying all aspects of 70’s rock and metal into a nice little package; The Screaming Jets delivered a performance that would have brought the house down in your local Aussie pub, yet seemed to fall just short of the expansive Challenge Stadium.

The word capable seems harsh when describing a band, but the Screaming Jets really seemed to fit this definition. Everything sounded great, yet there was no real spark or transfixing quality to their performance. They were most interesting in-between songs when lead singer Dave Gleeson took his position as the one with the microphone to insult an impressive number of people; from current media items Lara Bingle and Lady Gaga, to the more general groups of Emos, Americans and wankers. Fifth song October Grey had a nice Sultans of Swing feel to it; while the lead single and title track from their latest album Do Ya showcased a clichéd stop start, quasi-metal composition and highly original lyrics “Do ya love, do ya love, do ya love me?” They were harmless fun however, and managed to get the audience going with a fantastic version of their 1991 hit Better, which rounded of a capable supporting set.

You know you’re in for a treat of a performance when you spot five white (!) Marshall Stacks being lined up on one side of the stage, especially as a tirade of Telecasters were soon to be blasted out of the many speakers to each side of the stage. So it was exciting when the lights dropped and the epic opening music began; especially for those who knew to what extent the band could rock. Despite this, the start was a bit rocky; rhythm guitarist and vocalist Rick Parfitt’s guitar in opener Caroline didn’t seem as mind-blowing as it should, nor was it as loud. Any negative thoughts however disappeared by second song Somethin’ ‘bout you baby I like, where Parfitt took over vocal duties to good effect.

Raising the intensity Quo went straight into third song Rain without breaking; Parfitt now playing his Union Jack Telecaster. Rain featured Rossi’s first big solo of the night, which unlike those of The Screaming Jets’ always seemed relevant and crucial to the song’s feel. Between the third and fourth song Quo stopped for some trademark Rossi banter, which included a comment on the now ponytail-less style of Rossi’s hair (he now looks like some weird cross between Del Boy and Hannibal Lector). Don’t Drive My Car followed and was supported by some unwelcome synths, which still really don’t suit Quo’s fuzz-blues style of Rock & Roll. Mean Girl and relatively rare live track Softer Ride of 1973’s Hello album followed, giving their sound a much more upbeat feel.

Seventh and new album track Beginning of the End held up surprisingly well against the older tracks already played, showing that Quo can still turn out great rock songs despite their age. The man spotted dancing in that “oh no Dad’s drunk and has hit the dance-floor” type of way, managed to dance for the entirety of the show. Somehow this perfectly mirrored Quo’s performance, as they never wavered throughout a set that lasted around an hour and a half. Fan favourite Hold You Back followed, and was greeted with what can only be described as controlled moshing from the fans. What You’re Proposing began a mammoth six song medley, and included songs such as Down the Dust Pipe, Little Lady and Dear John.

The undeniable highlight of the night came at the fifteenth song of the night, when Quo played their first hit from all the way back in 1968 Pictures of Matchstick Men and it was brilliant. Trading the fuzz guitar sound for psychedelia, the song really stood out, despite being played alongside a company of other big hits and fantastic songs. Following straight after was their second hit single Ice in the Sun, which displayed a quick return to their trademark sound. Quo then jumped 34 years forward to play Heavy Traffic tracks The Oriental and Creepin’ Up On You; the earlier of which never really hit its potential in the outro riff, yet still managed to display their ability to consistently write and perform engaging tunes.

Parfitt’s vocals outshone those of Rossi on the night; the musicianship on the other hand was of the highest quality all throughout. John “Rhino” Edwards and Matt Letley held up a tight rhythm section, the latter of whom performed an impressive drum solo towards the end of the set. Andy Bown’s keyboards sounded best when in piano or organ setting, as any 80’s style keyboards (see worst song of the night Living On An Island) seemed to cheapen their sound.

Status Quo then launched into possibly the strongest four song set closer heard in quite some while. Roll Over, Lay Down featured a perfectly executed bridge, which rose expertly back into the song. Parfitt then began strumming the intro to 1974 UK #1 single Down Down, which was without a doubt the biggest rocker of the night. By this point Dancing Dad was going mental.

Final track and Creedence Clearwater Revival cover Rockin’ All Over the World was a great way to end the set, yet the crowd didn’t have to wait long for Quo to return for the encore. Playing the three covers Junior’s Wailing, Rock and Roll Music and Bye Bye Johnny, the latter two being Chuck Berry songs, It seemed the perfect point for Quo to leave the stage after rocking solid for about 2 hours. The sheer number of great songs that they did play managed to salve much of the disappointment over songs left out.

For those who think live and studio music is the property of the young, Status Quo proved that they can still play great songs and put on a good, yet professional show.

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