Supergrass brought their infectious energy to The Piece Hall in Halifax, delivering a performance that celebrated their enduring influence on British rock. Formed in 1993 in Oxford, originally as The Jennifers, Supergrass—comprising brothers Gaz and Rob Coombes, Mick Quinn, and Danny Goffey emerged as a defining force in the Britpop movement. Their Halifax show, part of the I Should Coco 30th Anniversary Tour, showcased their ability to blend exuberant pop with raw rock spontaneity, cementing their status as one of the era’s most vibrant acts.
Supergrass burst onto the scene with their 1995 debut album, I Should Coco, a Mercury-nominated, chart-topping record that captured the youthful exuberance of the mid-90s. Tracks like “Caught by the Fuzz” and “Alright” became anthems, blending punky riffs with catchy melodies. The album’s raw energy and cheeky lyricism drew comparisons to The Kinks and The Small Faces, establishing Supergrass as purveyors of infectious, unpolished rock.
Over the next 15 years, they released six studio albums, including standouts like In It for the Money (1997) and Life on Other Planets (2002), each showcasing their evolution from Britpop darlings to versatile songwriters exploring psychedelia, punk, and indie influences. Their catalogue, packed with hits like “Moving,” “Pumping on Your Stereo,” and “Richard III,” reflects a band unafraid to experiment while retaining their signature dynamism.
The Halifax performance, held in the stunning open-air courtyard of The Piece Hall, was a fitting tribute to I Should Coco’s legacy. Supergrass performed the album in its entirety, kicking off with the frenetic “I’d Like to Know” and powering through the jangly chaos of “Mansize Rooster” and the wistful “Time.” The setlist was a masterclass in pacing, balancing the youthful vigor of their debut with the polished execution of a band with three decades of experience.
An encore of greatest hits, “Sun Hits the Sky” and “Pumping Up Your Stereo,” reminded the audience of their depth and versatility. Supported by Sports Team and Ellur, the night was a showcase of indie rock’s past and present, with Supergrass as the towering centerpiece.
Photo Copyright © Jo Forrest
After a 2010 breakup and a triumphant 2019 reunion at Glastonbury’s Pilton Party, Supergrass have proven their staying power. Their Halifax show was not just a nostalgic trip but a testament to their relevance, with Gaz Coombes’ distinctive vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation sounding as fresh as ever. The Piece Hall’s acoustics amplified their raw energy, making tracks like “Lenny” feel visceral and immediate.
The band’s ability to channel the spirit of their 20s while delivering a performance polished by years of craft was a highlight, proving why they remain a beloved act.Supergrass’s legacy lies in their ability to marry unhinged spontaneity with timeless songwriting. Their Halifax performance was a reminder of their role as Britpop pioneers and their continued ability to captivate. As they celebrate I Should Coco’s 30th anniversary, Supergrass remain a vital force, their music resonating across generations.
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