Altered Images & Vanity Fairy at Concorde 2, Brighton, 13th September 2022
There’s always an element of a gamble in seeing an artist whose music you’ve listened to as you grew up. Will it bring back happy memories or feel like a tribute to the past? No such concern with Altered Images as, in addition to the classics, Clare Grogan has continued to stake her place in the music world, with collaborations on latest album Mascara Streakz with both Bernard Butler and Robert Hodgens, better known to most of us as Bobby Bluebell.
The set at Brighton’s Concorde 2 showcased her ability to hold the audience in the palm of her hand with a mix of great tunes, storytelling and an instantly recognisable voice that still sounds as strong as ever. It rained for most of the day on Tuesday but the night ended with a spark of pure sunshine; impossible not to enjoy this.
And a shout out for an inspired choice of support as Vanity Fairy won over the crowd (not an easy task when you have a fanbase this established) with their enchanting synth-disco tunes, complete with a vocal worthy of the love child of Kate Bush and Sylvester.
For one night only, the seafront had more sequins than pebbles – which is no bad thing.
Words and photos by Siobhan
16th September 2022
Breaking Glass Magazine 