A year ago, we wouldn’t have been the first to jump to Roddy’s defence if someone had accused him of not being able to sing. In fact, we would have more than likely been the ones to make this accusation in the first place. We had listened to him struggle his way through too many gigs to take him seriously as a first class (or even second class) vocalist. We seriously doubted his singing ability, but always found his efforts, (which more often that not, resulted in failure) to reach those high notes rather endearing. However, when we saw Idlewild in April, it was quite obvious Roddy had put his year off to good use and had been getting some much needed lessons, and what better way to show off his new found talent than to do a series of acoustic sets. (He was quite clearly gagging to meet us again, and apologise for his disgusting behaviour so they threw in a few signing sessions as well.)
So on the 17th of July, we made our way down to London ready to be astounded by their new album, (whilst secretly hoping we would be returning home with the sexy beast in tow!).
After being caught up in a 15 minute toilet queue (who'd be a girl), we thought we had completely lost any chance of getting anywhere within Idlewild drooling distance. Although we were virtually the last to arrive, we still managed to get a good view. As the last of the stragglers arrived, the doors, (or gates, whatever you want to call them), of what can only be described as similar to those of what sheep are held in fields, were shut on the crowd. It was a bit of a squash to say the least but everyone was in too much anticipation to care.
Roddy appears on stage, closely followed by Colin and his guitar, who then takes his place at the stool on the side of the stage. As they kick off with 'These Wooden Ideas', it becomes apparent that an acoustic set was far from a wooden idea. (see what we did there? it was very clever!) Anyway.....Roddy really has developed a pretty amazing voice that would put even the likes of Chris Martin to shame.
The set continues with mostly new songs such as 'You Held The World In Your Arms' and 'I never wanted' as well as a few of the old favourites including 'Actually It's Darkness', before finishing off with the current single 'American English', all of which were sang with just as much emotion and brilliance as the first. Nice one Roddy.
Whilst the majority of the fans are visibly impressed, you can see a few of them are hoping Bob and Rod are suddenly going to appear on stage and burst into Captain. I don't think they quite knew what an ACOUSTIC gig was. Bless 'em!
As soon Roddy and Colin leave the stage, it's clear that they have left the old Idlewild behind, but there’s only so far you can take a band if you continue on the same track. They're beginning to move into a much more grown-up, melodic sound. The old Idlewild may have gone, but they'll never be forgotten. Whilst the new Idlewild will be loved, respected and supported just as much.
The gig was finished off with the signing session which resulted in us finally forgiving Roddy. The little rascal!
Rocking or Shocking?
Rocking. 
4/5. Listen to what they’ve got.
