Reviews

Everyone has at least one band who they always hope to see live. A band who you can remember bopping around your bedroom to, whilst warbling into your hair brush.

For me, Blondie have always been one of those bands, with Debbie Harry's sultry looks adding to the persona this legendary band carry with them.

Having heard about the disappointing performance delivered by another legend, Van Morrisson, at the same venue, I will admit that I was somewhat apprehensive as I pitched up my picnic chair amongst the 6,000 gig goers.

Not much support

After a very disappointing support performance from ex-Ash guitarist, Charlotte Hatherley, the audience around me appeared heartily bored and not at all set up for the main attraction.

Following what seems like an eternity, Blondie bounded on to the stage with an infectious energy which took hold immediately as they launched into their classic Call Me.

Blondie fans by Lee Allen.

The veteran pop act, who sprung to fame in the UK in the 1970s, are one of a select few bands whose fame and popularity has spanned over three decades.

This was evident with the clear mix of fans ranging from the hardcore middle aged in pink wigs, to young indie trendsetters.

Still Atomic

Debbie Harry was effortlessly cool throughout and the slightly unusual declaration of 'oh I know where we are, we're somewhere in the forest and it's really scary' drew the crowd in for more.

Iconic tunes such as Atomic and Sunday Girl blended beautifully alongside lesser known tracks such as Rapture, with Harry delivering the bands characteristic high notes with ease.

With Atomic, came a surprising softer and more instrumental version than the album version fans are used too. At first I will admit that this surprise was not entirely pleasant, though as the track went on it served to highlight the talent and experience which is held throughout the band.

Blondie at Thetford Forest by Lee Allen.

'Alright all you nature fiends'

As the set continued we rocked back and forth through the band's back catalogue between older tracks like The Tide Is High, to newer numbers such as Maria, which Debbie dedicated to all the girls.

Winding up with One Way Or Another, Debbie Harry never stopped dancing and neither did her audience.

I'm pleased to say that unlike Van the Man, Blondie definitely still have it.