The Quireboys Rock Nottingham: A Night to Remember at The Old Cold Store

November 25, 2024 rocknews

Last night, The Old Cold Store in Nottingham played host to a rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza that will be etched in the memories of all who attended. The venue, a medium-sized gem with a great atmosphere, was the perfect setting for a night of high-energy performances from Nottingham-based glam rockers Continental Lovers, the musician Willie Dowling, and the legendary Quireboys.

Continental Lovers: A Blast from the Past

The evening kicked off with Continental Lovers, a band that embodies the spirit of 80s glam rock. Their set was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with tracks from their latest self-titled album. Drawing inspiration from bands like Hanoi Rocks, the Lovers delivered a sound that was both familiar and fresh. The crowd was treated to energetic renditions of “Tape Deck” and “The Girl,” with frontman Joe Maddox adding a touch of humour by plugging their merch and jokingly suggesting, “there’s a bin bag you can put your £5 notes in.”

The band continued to impress with “Can’t Get Her Out Of My Head” and the catchy “Dale Arden.” Their authentic rock ‘n’ roll show left the audience wanting more, and it’s safe to say that Continental Lovers have secured a place in the hearts of Nottingham’s rock fans.

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Willie Dowling: A Master of Wit and Melody

After a short break, Willie Dowling took to the stage, instantly capturing the audience’s attention with his unmissable black and white check suit. Known for his contributions to various bands and his solo work, Dowling brought a unique blend of comedy and music to the night. Accompanied by Andy on bass and backing vocals, Dowling’s set was a delightful mix of humour and melody.

Mocking his own likeness to Radio DJ Dave Lee Travis, Dowling kept the crowd entertained with his witty banter. He introduced songs from his album “The Simpleton,” including “The Gravy Train” and “I Killed My Imaginary Friend.” His tribute to his first girlfriend (According to Willie – Edwina Currie?) “Sadie Goldman,” added a personal touch to the performance. Dowling’s polished and entertaining, showcased his talent as both a musician and a performer.

The Quireboys: A Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival

With The Old Cold Store now bursting at the seams, the excitement for the Quireboys was electric. As the band took to the stage to the sound of The Sweeney TV theme, the crowd erupted with cheers and applause. Frontman Spike’s charismatic presence and gritty vocals immediately drew everyone in, setting the tone for a night of rock ‘n’ roll magic.

The setlist was a well-crafted mix of classic hits and newer tracks. The rendition of “7 O’clock” had the entire audience singing along, while a soulful performance of “I Don’t Love You Anymore” saw arms raised and swaying to the music. New tracks “I Think I Got It Wrong Again” and “Like It Or Not” from their recently released album “Wardour Street” were met with enthusiasm and appreciation.

Spike’s playful antics on stage added to the fun, as he tried to distract guitarist Luke Morley during the instrumental break of “I Think I Got It Wrong Again.” The banter between Spike and Luke, including a humorous exchange about what Luke would be if he weren’t a guitarist (“A Virgin”), had the crowd roaring with laughter.

A moving tribute to Quireboys co-founder Guy Bailey and Spike’s own father introduced “Kings Of New York,” a crowd favourite that saw the entire room singing along. The Quireboys’ performance was a testament to their enduring talent and passion for rock ‘n’ roll.

The Quireboys delivered a stellar performance that showcased their enduring talent and passion for rock ‘n’ roll. Their gig at The Old Cold Store was not just a concert, but an experience—a night of music, camaraderie, and pure enjoyment. The cosy setting allowed for a close connection between the band and the audience, making the experience feel personal and engaging. It’s safe to say that anyone who attended will be talking about this show for a long time to come.