LIVE REVIEW & GALLERY: Stiff Little Fingers @ Epic Studios, Norwich
8th August 2024
Support from Wreckless Eric
Upon arriving at the venue, there were a fair number of people queuing up outside, but the door staff managed to get everyone in swiftly. When I got into the main room, it was a true delight to see so many people of all ages coming together to see the brilliant Stiff Little Fingers, who had travelled from Belfast for a UK-wide tour. Even though it was a Thursday night, the number of people in attendance made it feel like it was the weekend.
Starting off the night was the support act, Wreckless Eric, who performed a number of folk genre songs in his own unique style. While I had never heard him perform before, he knew how to get the crowd going and set the stage for the headlining act. With catchy riffs and attitude, Wreckless Eric was a great opening act for the night.
After a short break, Stiff Little Fingers made their way to the stage and immediately kicked things off with the brilliant “Suspect Device,” which was their original debut hit back in 1978. It is safe to say that it sounds just as good now as it did all those years ago. Stiff Little Fingers then went on to play other tracks like “State of Emergency,” “Hate Has No Home Here,” and “Silver Lining.” One of the most surprising songs of the night was a cover of the John Hurley classic “Love of the Common People.” Hearing it performed in a punk style worked brilliantly.
Other songs included “Last Train From The Wasteland,” “Nobody’s Hero,” and “Gotta Gettaway.” Considering the band members are in their 60s now, they put as much energy into their performance as they did back in the ’70s. The best thing about punk music is that songs questioning the establishment never get old, and you know that everyone there is going to be enjoying themselves. It is thanks to bands like Stiff Little Fingers that it’s clear punk isn’t dead and is a genre that is very much alive. If you ever get the chance to see Stiff Little Fingers live, then do so, as their performance is mind-blowing.
