The Engine Rooms in Southampton was the perfect setting for Cast’s stop on their UK tour. With a career spanning over three decades, Cast has long been a staple of the British indie-rock scene, and their return to Southampton proved they’re still firing on all cylinders.
As the lights dimmed this evening there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Opening with ‘Sandstorm’ from their debut album ‘All Change’, the band immediately set the tone. Quickly followed by the infectious energy of ‘Finetime’ and title track from the new album ‘Love Is The Call’, lead singer John Power’s distinctive vocals filled the room. The chemistry between the band was undeniable with every song feeling like a well-rehearsed moment of magic.
‘Walkaway’ and ‘Free Me’ provided a great mix of high-energy and emotion. While Cast have always been known for their melodic anthems, it was their ability to transition seamlessly that showcased their versatility. The outro to ’Free Me’ took me to another galaxy with the hypnotic nature of its bass and drum solo outro.
The band’s encore was a particular highlight, the crowd were treated to ‘History’ and the majestic ‘Alright’. The final moments were superb with the crowd singing ‘Alright’ in unison and the band feeding off that energy.
Cast’s performance at Engine Rooms was a testament to their staying power and ability to captivate a live audience. The band’s blend of Britpop nostalgia and timeless indie-rock hit all the right notes. As the final chords faded and the lights came up, there was a sense of satisfaction in the air—Cast had once again proven their place in the British indie-rock pantheon.
