LIVE REVIEW: Suede @ O2 Academy, Leeds

I caught Suede on their last performance of the UK leg of their current UK, promoting their newest album release "Autofiction". Does this classic brit-pop/alternative rock icon still hold up today? After checking out their latest performance at O2 Academy in Leeds, I'd say so.

This is my second time seeing Suede live at the O2 Academy, and I must say the venue is a perfect fit for the band. With (just) enough room for the fans like you'd expect from a bigger venue, but the proximity to the artist we all crave, the balance between intimacy and gravitas is perfect for a band such as Suede.

The performance was, as always, spectacular. From the minute that signature guitar tone hit it never seemed to stop wailing with measured and well-rehearsed emotion. However, whilst Suede isn't exactly known for their electronic hits, I was surprised by the limited amount of instruments utilised throughout the set. Don't get me wrong, the ones used more than did the job, but not even a cheeky synth solo for the last gig of the tour?

This time around, the set list featured a few of Suedes tracks from their latest album. Whilst the crowd was definitely quieter here than you'd expect during classics like The Drowners and Animal Nitrate, I was surprised at how well their current tracks fit in with the rest of their output. I'll definitely be giving "Autofiction" a closer look soon.

Mixing was handled superbly well, better so than my last Suede gig, where the bass was less heard and more so felt. Everything was clear even during the more bombastic tracks, and Brett's quieter voice wasn't drowned out by the crowd or instrumentals.

Normally, I'd like to throw in a couple of more constructive points to balance out this review, but I must admit Suede has left me with very little. Whilst nothing in the gig, from performance to the song choices themselves, blew my socks off - it was all done with the smoothness and consistent quality you'd expect from a band that's been in the touring business for so long.

So whilst this might be a shorter review than most, that should only serve as a marker of quality. My brevity should come across to you as a slight smile behind a gentle nod. It's good, it's Suede, and any money spent on tickets will be spent well.

Unfortunately, with this being the last leg of their most recent tour you might be waiting a while to enjoy Suede as I did, but I'd definitely keep your eyes peeled for future tickets.

Photos taken by Scott on his phone.