Baggy Trousers are a Brisbane-based Madness tribute band. They’re touring New Zealand – and by “tour”, I mean they’re playing in the three main centres – so we decided to go along and see them. Whilst they’re Aussies, the singer is a Brit who has moved to Australia.
…who were a revelation! They’re called The Underground, and they’re from Nelson. They’re also a cover band, but with a varied mix. The set started with In The City by The Jam, then continued with songs by The Clash, Buzzcocks, The Police, The Vapors, The Ruts, The Specials, more Jam and Clash. Honestly, you’d pay to see them on their own, and next time they’re in Wellington, we just might.
Then on to the main event. The arrival of the band was
heralded by Return of Los Palmas 7 played through the PA. They covered all the
classics,* but also mixed in some songs from more "recent" albums after the band
reformed in the 90s. The hits were evenly dispersed throughout the show, mixed
with some deep cuts, and they slowed it down on a couple of occasions, probably
because the singer needed a rest from the high-energy performance he gives to
the songs. He’s also clearly studied Suggs’ stage and video presence, as he had
the gestures and dances down pat. Togged out in pinstriped suit, with porkpie
hat and dark glasses, he looked the part. The supporting band were also very
accomplished, although I could’ve wished for the piano to be slightly higher in
the mix as it was drowned out a lot of the time.
They finished the main set with Our House, but then came back for an encore of Madness, then changed their headgear for a pith helmet and fezzes for Night Boat To Cairo.
* Driving In My Car didn’t get a look-in, possibly
because of the complexity of the horns and bells. Also, Michael Caine didn’t
make the mix.
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