While queuing for a beer at the majestic Royal Albert Hall, the guy next to me, impressively nursing his third pint just five minutes after doors opened, struck up a conversation. “How many times have you seen Hawkwind?” he asked. Admitting it was my inaugural voyage, he laughed, “You’re in for a treat! I’ve seen them over a dozen times.” As he regaled me with stories from past concerts, my excitement for the evening ahead intensified.
Royal Albert Hall is more than just a temple of music; it’s a treasure trove of British musical history. Tonight, it morphed into a cathedral of cosmic sound, dedicated to the pioneers of space rock, Hawkwind. From the BBC Proms to iconic performances by the likes of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Eric Clapton, this venue has seen it all. As I strolled its corridors, the walls boasted photographs capturing these legendary moments, a silent testament to its storied past. Among these greats, there I was, clutching my camera. Intimidating? Certainly. But, camera in hand, I dove in, eager to capture a slice of tonight’s interstellar magic.
Dave Brock, the heart and soul of Hawkwind, stood firmly in his element, wielding his guitar and belting out vocals that echoed through the grandeur of the venue. He may have skipped the keyboards this time around, but that void was more than filled by the inclusion of William Orbit, who painted massive aural soundscapes, blending seamlessly with the band’s trademark sounds.
Alongside Brock, Richard Chadwick’s thunderous drumming reverberated with a powerful pulse. Magnus Martin showered celestial melodies from his guitar, while Doug MacKinnon’s bass, like an anchor, ensured we stayed connected to the band’s cosmic rhythm. Yet, amidst these stellar performances, it was Thighpaulsandra who became the sorcerer of the night. His mesmerizing play on the keyboards and synthesizers felt like magic dust sprinkled across the universe, enveloping us in layers of sonic wonder.
The setlist was a riveting ride through Hawkwind’s vast discography. With over 110 releases to their name, encompassing studio albums, live recordings, singles, and more, they had a wealth of material to draw from. They expertly selected songs from classic albums like The Future Never Waits and Warrior on the Edge of Time. My enthusiasm peaked when they played “Right to Decide” from Electric Tepee—undoubtedly one of the best album titles of all time. Belting out that track amidst a sea of devoted fans left me in awe of what I was seeing and hearing in this gorgeous setting.
But the piece de resistance was the light show. It was something to behold. I’ve seen disco balls with less flair. U2 in Vegas? I bet Bono was scribbling notes the last time he caught Hawkwind. Lasers danced, intricate patterns swirled, and vibrant colours filled the hall, making it a sensory feast.
But here’s the thing about Hawkwind: they don’t just play music; they create experiences. Tonight wasn’t just about the songs or the incredible visuals. It was about feeling connected to something bigger, something cosmic. It’s a testament to their enduring spirit and the reason they’ve captivated audiences for decades. So, if you ever find yourself yearning for an out-of-this-world experience, grab a Hawkwind ticket. And maybe wear some shades; it’s rather dazzling out there in space.
Opening the evening was The Crazy World of Arthur Brown. Remember the guy who scared most of us with his “God of Hellfire” persona? There he was, a few feet away, his presence magnified by the most intricate costumes I’ve ever seen. Set against a trippy backdrop, it was clear no substances were needed to get on this high.
THE CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN
