Buzzcocks, The Dollyrots

Very few British bands have managed such a successful run of singles as Buzzcocks did between 1977 and 1981 that still have the same appeal so many years later. Tonight saw them play The Institute in Birmingham slap bang in the middle of their UK tour.

First to the stage were three piece LA based The Dollyrots bringing their own brand of pop punk somewhat reminiscent of the 1990's. With an unfortunately small crowd in the Library, they probably didn't get the reaction they're most likely used to back home but I found myself intrigued. The feel good riffs and punk edges had me smiling although you could tell at points singer/bassist Kelly Ogden was a little uncomfortable with being in the limelight. With a simple style and fun lyrics it's easy to see why this band have such an impressive back catalogue of support slots.

With slightly more greying hair on his chin than on his head, front man Pete Shelley still has a twinkle in his eye and an easy smile. Buzzcocks still have a mischievous look about them as they launch into an epic 22 track set list. Luckily (and unsurprisingly) the crowd has expanded massively since The Dollyrots. Kicking straight in with 'Boredom' the old punks are off and reliving their youth with a bouncing pit at the front. We are treated to several new gems from new album 'The Way' and the title track as well as new single 'It's Not You' go down particularly well. The new songs blend excellently alongside the classics which the band roll out expertly much to the crowds delight!

Steve Diggle has aged well and looks like an excited kid as he holds his guitar aloft grinning at the crowd throughout the set.

Of course 'Ever Fallen in Love was part of the encore and of course it was the obvious favourite. Unfortunately the sound may not have been great and the vocals seemed to be mixed somewhat too low but that didn't deter the faithful fans continually bouncing round the room. Nearly two hours after it began, the set was over as the sweaty smiling crowd dispersed.