Space Elevator - Old Courts, Wigan (UK) - 19 May 2018
When I last saw Space Elevator during the autumn of 2016, they were on a co-headline trek around the UK with Cats In Space. In the intervening eighteen months, the Cats crew have seen their profile go through the roof, following extensive touring with big name acts and very positive album reviews. Space Elevator are just about to release their sophomore effort, imaginatively titled 'II', and I mentioned in my review that there was no reason their profile should not follow that of the Cats.
The Old Courts venue in Wigan has only been open for a few years and it's becoming a very popular location for tribute acts more than anything else. If I'm honest, I wasn't expecting a big turnout for the show, but was sorry for the band to find only thirty or so people in the room when they began their ninety minute set. The warm, sunny evening and earlier events of the day, including the Royal Wedding and the F.A. Cup Final, may have had something to do with the size of the crowd, but Space Elevator still played as though they were headlining an arena.
Speaking to drummer Brian Greene before the show, it was clear that expectations are high for the new album and tonight was the perfect showcase for a lot of the new material, what with the release date still a week away. Those in attendance were disappointed to find that 'II' was not available to buy from the merch table, but I was very pleased to be able to get my advance copy signed by the band. The new songs fit in seamlessly with those from the 2014 debut and the performances from all four members were fantastic. The sound was perfect and it was clear from the smiles that everyone was enjoying themselves.
The Duchess has a stunningly powerful voice and a great stage presence that matches her effervescent personality. Guitarist David Young got the chance to play some cultured solos and riffs during a smoking cover of Thin Lizzy's 'Don't Believe A Word' (and I love the fact they play the song with the slow intro), whilst 'Queen For A Day' sees him channel his best Brian May. Greene and bass player Chas Maguire were locked in tighter than ten people in an eight person capacity lift and Maguire's backing vocals added a nice depth to the harmonies. The Space Elevator musical style crosses a number of genres but is essentially a Rock/Pop hybrid that should have extensive appeal with the right exposure. No gimmicks and no flashy stage effects, just an honest Rock show with great songs and performers as the focus.
Following the show, the band took the time to chat with a very appreciative audience. Touches like that add to the enjoyment of the night and the time passed so quickly that I had to run to catch my train home. Space Elevator have signed a deal with the German Steamhammer/SPV label so hopefully the added promotional clout will see the band achieve the success they fully deserve.
Review and photos by Dave Bott
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