The Charlatans – Birmingham Academy – 2001 – Past Daily Saturday Soundbooth

Perennial favorites The Charlatans this weekend, recorded in concert at the Birmingham Academy in 2001 by the venerable BBC Radio 1. When I first heard them in 1990, around the time their debut album Some Friendly was issued, I took an instant liking to them. They were a revelation and reminded me of certain aspects of 60s Psychedelia, but they weren’t a knock-off band. They were fresh, they had a distinct point of view and they represented something new and interesting on the horizon – frankly, it was badly needed.

So they arrived at the right place at the right time.

This concert, from 2001 runs the gamut from early milestone songs to later ones. It’s a must-listen for anyone who hasn’t become familiar with just how influential the Charlatans were and how, even after some 20 years, they continue to sound fresh and vital. And that’s a good sign for any band.

Sit back and crank this one up. Get ready for the weekend.

Consider, if you will:

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