Blossoms
Enmore Theatre
15 March 2025
Sometimes I question whether it is it worth it. Going to gigs that is. Being honest, travelling to another city to see a band is kind of crazy. First of all, there’s the expense, then there’s the hassle of being away from home. Often, I travel by myself, as I find it hard to get someone to come with me. That isn’t the easiest thing in the world. In short, it’s a lot of effort. Is it worth it?
This question is brought into sharp focus when the band you want to see is a support band and they’re guaranteed to play a short set.
It has to be said that there aren’t many advantages to being an Australian fan of UK music. They’re not always part of the cultural zeitgeist, so it’s hard keeping up with any current news and releases. Back when you had to actually buy records, they were often imports at inflated prices, and you had to wait months to get them. Finally, the bands hardly ever tour here. But when they do come you need to grasp the opportunity with both hands. I wasn’t going to let this opportunity go to waste.
One of the advantages of seeing UK bands, however, is the chance to see them in relatively intimate venues. Blossoms (from Stockport, just outside Manchester) were supporting Kasabian and they played the relatively small Enmore Theatre, as compared to their recent hometown show to 30,000 fans!
It was almost like seeing them when they were just starting out. The stage props were non-existent, their lighting show was rudimentary. But the songs! Oh my god the songs! With only a limited time for their set, they focussed on their big hitters and they knocked it out of the park. They played a set that picked the eyes out of their five album back catalogue.
They were incredible. Really incredible. All those years of performing on larger stages really showed. They are a band that knows what they’re doing. Tight, but also loose. Note perfect, but also willing to cut loose when required. Having an arsenal of great songs definitely helps, but knowing how to perform them is essential.
Yes, the set was too short. Yes, I travelled too far to see them. Yes, it was a big effort. But would I do it again? Yes, no question. In a heartbeat. It was definitely worth it!
A postscript.
As Blossoms were the support band, I had found myself at the front barrier for the set, but decided that I wasn’t really interested in Kasabian so I went to the back of the theatre to watch them. After watching a handful of songs of the headliner I’d had enough, so decided to leave the venue. As I was walking out, I ran into the lead singer and drummer from Blossoms!!! Unbelievable! I told them that I’d travelled 300kms to see them and that they were amazing! I asked for a selfie (and they happily obliged). I shook their hands and went home very happy!
