The Damned Reunion Shows October 2022

 

Another series of events derailed by COVID-19 were the Damned reunion shows. Actually, I wasn't impacted by this one as I did not opt to buy a ticket in the first place. I didn't join the chorus of disapproval over the ticket price, high though it undoubtedly is. Expensive, yes, but now looking at the line up each night with a couple of name bands/musicians of the day on each night, I think that the sting has been somewhat lessened and the package shapes up pretty well.

My decision to skip these gigs was based upon a couple of considerations. The first is that I saw them play a couple of times in the '76 form 30 odd years ago and I do not think that that will be bettered. The second, and more relevant reason is that 'Damned Damned Damned' has been showcased to death, not only by the original lineup on reunion tours but also on a recent(ish) tour by another more recent line up (when the album was coupled with 'The Black Album'). I like the album, but remember that the Vanian, James, Scabies and Sensible line up released two albums not one! I have never really comprehended why the band have such an aversion to their second album, 'Music For Pleasure'. Was it just down to the fact that it was Floyd's Nick Mason in the producer's chair rather than the desired Syd? I listen to that album and I hear great songs, songs that took the band in a newer direction without losing sight of where they had come from with 'Damned Damned Damned'.

Personally, I would much prefer to see Rat in the band with Dave, Cap and Paul doing justice to both 'The Black Album' and 'Strawberries'.

What do you think?

Anyway, good luck to them. I hope if nothing else it gives them the opportunity to bury their differences and realise, probably for the last time, that back in '76 and '77 the four of them created some unforgettable sounds that have stayed the course for nearly 50 years! Then again it could all end in fisticuffs.... such is the nature of rock 'n' roll!