The Slow Readers Club, Dancehouse Theatre. 7th November 2019

A real treat with The Slow Readers Club tonight. The Journey to The Apollo is a good summary, but going in I didn’t know quite what to expect. What transpires is a immersive hours Q&A chaired by 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins, covering the origins of the band. Stories of how they met, adverts in Loot, pub gigs with 20 people, nicknames for germinating songs and the importance of the support slot with James. Jim who seems quiet on stage is dynamite on the mic, sharp and insightful, humble and fun... and fresh out of hospital, having been discharge just hours earlier with a hand injury that’s going to sadly cancel a few upcoming shows. Speaking of shows, the huge homecoming show at Manchester Apollo last December is the thread for the evening, with songs from that night being peppered throughout the Q&A from the the DVD recording. It’s weird to be in a room with 400 die hard fans, essentially watching TV, but bouncing along like we’re all back in the Apollo. Things get lively when the audience get to ask the questions, predictable favourite gigs, but also heartfelt stuff about the band going full time and giving up the day jobs. The Dancehouse theatre is a lovely space and perfect for the half hour striped back acoustic set that follows. It’s quite incredible hearing these usually epic songs treated so delicately and genuinely feels special as the band (minus Jim) embrace their tender side. It’s testament to the power of this band and these songs that they work so well in this environment. They take on a new life accompanied by the lick of acoustic strings, brushes on cymbals and Aaron’s voice that seems especially melancholic. It’s delightful and a pin could drop... until a song finishes and the calls of “READERS READERS READERS” shake the theatre seats. Yet another incredible night with an incredible band.