Paul is a master of his craft and his longevity in the music industry is something to be admired. The man has reinvented himself numerous times and has not been afraid to face his critics in staying true to what feels most aligned to him. In my opinion, Paul is a living legend of British music.
One thing you can be guaranteed is a party atmosphere at Paul’s gigs as he traverses his back catalogue which this time will include his most recent album ‘66’ – fittingly named for his 66th rotation around the sun this year. Tonight’s party, on a Friday night in Portsmouth, was going to be no different with The Mods, Skins and Soulies out in the finest attire.
Opening with ‘Cosmic Fringes’ the crowd were immediately hooked with Weller, ever the cool and effortlessly stylish while letting the music speak for itself. The setlist was a journey through Weller’s illustrious career, pulling from The Jam, The Style Council, and his solo work, with ‘That’s Entertainment’, ‘Shout to the Top’ and ‘Peacock Suit’ turning the venue into a collective sing-along. While there were moments of nostalgia, Weller also made sure to showcase his more recent work from his latest album treating us to renditions of ‘Jumble Queen’, ‘Rise Up Singing’ and ‘ Soul Wandering’. The newer material was met with a good reception, although when Paul mentioned the new album, the crowd’s reaction prompted him to say ‘perhaps it wasn’t released in Portsmouth but it was everywhere else’!
What stands out in a Paul Weller performance is not just the music but the mood he creates. Weller’s band, as always, were tight, which allows his unmistakable voice to soar. The gig saw Weller engaging with the audience as ever, making quips and sharing a few moments of reflection and condemning the war in Gaza, whilst there was a Palestinian flag adorning the stage.
The encores (yes there were two) were, as expected, a triumphant affair. The were big cheers in the crowd as the opening chords of ‘The Changingman’ rang out, followed by ‘Porcelain Gods’ and ‘Wild Wood’. Returning to the stage a second time, Weller launched into an incredible version of ‘A Town Called Malice’. The night ended with the audience still buzzing, proof of the timeless appeal of Weller’s music.
Weller may be in his 60s now, but on stage, he is still as dynamic and relevant as ever. Paul reminded everyone why he’s not just a music icon of the past—but a continuing force in the present.
