The Cribs, Manchester Academy. 6th March 2022

I don’t think it’s too controversial to say I prefer early Cribs. I know everyone says that about bands that have been around a while and I’m not saying the more recent albums aren’t good. They’ve just grown up a bit. Nothing wrong with that, who wants to hear a band do the same thing album after album. We’re 8 albums in now, which means there’s a lot to go at tonight in the big black box that is Manchester Academy. There is a lot from 2020s Night Network, but this 90 minute set bridges every album… I think. Don’t quote me, but it does feel like they’re making sure everyone’s happy. And we are! They maybe the grown ups of the DIY indie scene, but The Cribs always put on a raucous show. Alright they might not feel quite as new and dangerous as they once did, but The Blinders are supporting and will tick that box if you need it. The crowd surfing starts immediately though with Running Into You, then goes ballistic for I’m A Realist. I think we take The Cribs for granted and forget how good they are. I can’t think of any band like this with such catchy lyrics and hooks. It feels like everyone in here is singing along word perfect. Of course there’s lots of “Oooo ooo”s for anyone that gets a bit lost and needs to catch up. As always I can’t take my eyes off Ryan. He’s still skinny with seemingly limitless energy. Attacking his guitar, screaming melodically into the mic. The bowl cut is gone though. I’ll admit the newer, slower stuff does lose the crowd a little. These songs are still great, but the sound mix feels like it fits the faster stabby songs better, leaving these more mature songs feeling a bit muddy. They’ve been doing this a while though, the set is peppered with the sort of release the seatbelt and put your foot down bangers that I love them for and we’re never left long without a reason to jump around like idiots. They do have a fourth bloke on stage in a baseball cap hidden towards the back filling out the guitars. I don’t know if they need him really, they never used to and even sounded better after booting Johnny fucking Marr out of the band after that ill advised dalliance (alright I’m sure he left amicably). I do prefer the purity of the trio though. I prefer them in smaller rooms too. I last saw them in Gorilla. That was like a pressure cooker. It’s just a better live experience. They fill the Academy well though, but you have to pick your poison. The sound is best in the middle of the room, but the atmosphere is tons better down the front. Ross is out of his seat at every given opportunity. Battering the hell of the drum kit and going one further for Hey Scenesters! ending up stood on the bass drum. It’s not the best I’ve seen them mind, but listening to a packed out Academy singing along to Be Safe, does feel oddly euphoric. I’m acutely aware though that in going to as many gigs as I do, I’m spoilt and it takes something really exciting to get me to gush about a band. The Cribs aren’t quite there tonight, but it’s still a great gig. Mirror Kisses, Mens Needs and Pink Snow bring things to a close. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better send off and The Cribs still set the bar for ear pummelling power pop.