- Opinion
- 15 Jul 24
England's Euros defeat didn't get in the way of Gallagher delivering an unforgettable night of rock 'n' roll for his first ever concert in the Treaty City.
I was seven years old when Definitely Maybe was released. When you hear exciting new music when you're a kid, it has a deep and lasting affect. While I was too young to live the lifestyle of older Oasis fans at the time, their music defines the decade I grew up in. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get to see Liam Gallagher play in my hometown, and that sentiment can be felt strongly throughout the stadium here tonight.
Following lively support sets from Esmeralda Road and The Mary Wallopers, the countdown is quite literally on, as the big screen onstage counts back the years from 2024 to 1994.
Kicking off proceedings with an electrifying performance of 'Rock 'N' Roll Star', Liam Gallagher and his band deliver a blistering set. From 'Digsy's Dinner' to 'Cigarettes & Alcohol', Gallagher rips through Oasis's debut album and its beloved b-sides, with his voice sounding better than ever.
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While some fans voiced concerns that Gallagher might be distracted by the clashing Euros final, there's no doubting his focus is solely on the music.
With the sprawling Clare Hills framing the stage, the setting for this historic show is fittingly spectacular. Having spotted the Tayto advertising signage to the left of the stage, Gallagher dedicates his next song to Mr Tayto – saying to the crowd, "You don't know how lucky you are...", before launching into fan-favourite 'Half The World Away'.
Groups of friends are arm-in-arm throughout Thomomd Park as they sing every word with heart. There's a lot of emotion here tonight, the warmth and passion of the audience is a joy to see.
While some fans keep an eye on the Spain v England Euros Final score line, Gallagher clocks that England have lost when the crowd starts chanting 'Olé, Olé, Olé' celebrating Spain's victory. Cool as ever, the Manchester legend shrugs it off with an 'Oh, whatever...', before fittingly launching into the beloved anthem 'Whatever'.
The night comes to an end with an incredible rendition of 'Live Forever', followed by an encore of The Beatles' 'I Am The Walrus'.
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In years to come, tonight's concert is one that people will proudly say: "I was there". A life-affirming performance by Manchester's best loved son. Come back soon, Liam.