QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE Norwich UEA
Gig review

Sorry but this is not going to be a very lengthy review simply because it's two days later and my memory is not what it used to be.

I'm very worried that my ears are still buzzing! This is probably a bad sign, especially since I am seeing Nerf Herder tomorrow night in Brighton.

It was the first gig that I've been to on my own. I figured I'm up in Norwich working, they are playing, cabs are free so no hassles or worrying about getting home and if they were playing in London chances are I'd still not find anyone to go with me.

I decided I'd turn up at 8 (doors opened at 7), as I didn't want any uncomfortable waiting around. I walked in and asked for my ticket and was a bit worried when the woman with a look of surprise said "ah so your the one with the special ticket!" - hmmm... a good sign? Well I didn't get any special privilege that's for sure! She said I couldn't have my ticket but could pick it up when I left (its what everyone did, so nothing special there then).

First things first, I decided to go to the bar and get a drink. I went for the usual - a gin and tonic - and was promptly asked for ID; "…but I'm 25!" I whinged, "Sorry, love, I need some ID". Flabbergasted I wondered if I had anything in my wallet; credit card, blood donor card, Brighton library card and various coffee loyalty cards - but nothing that would be accepted.

Usually the sulk and pout work for me but this time the guy wasn't having any of it. I tried another tactic; "So how old are you then?" He was 19! Imagine my bitter laugh. Next thing I knew the bar manager came over to see what was going on. I continued my whinge "Look, I'm 25, I'm up here contracting from Brighton, I have no ID, all I want is to get my drink and enjoy the band!" It worked, apparently I was ok by the bar manager and I scuttled off to sit on my own and enjoy my drink. I must mention here that it was my only drink, as I was far to shy to go back to the bar for another one.

As a venue the Norwich UEA was quite nice. There was a mosh-pit in front of the stage and then a couple of steps leading up to the rest of the floor. I managed to get a good spot right in the middle and on the steps. For little old me it was heaven - no big heads in front blocking the view.

So this is where my memory gets a little hazy, and if anyone was there please comment in the newsgroup if they know who the two support bands were. The strange thing was that there were no introductions by either band, no "Hey Norwich you ready to rock to the sounds of [band]?" or "we've been [band] goodnight!"

The first band was from the US and obviously on tour with QOTSA. They were metal and well, not all that wonderful. The front man was a rather sweaty bald guy and if you're that hot, mate, take off the bomber jacket! They did try and get the crowed going but at that time there were about 10 people milling around waiting for something to happen. Nothing did.

The second support band were not much better. These guys were Brits with attitude, but not a very good one. They flounced on stage with their too tight, too short jumpers and Glam Rock/Goth make-up. The pit by this time had filled up quite a lot but was still not in a very forgiving mood - they were here to see QOTSA and they weren't going to waste time on these boys.

So when they did finally hobble on stage, the place was packed to capacity and these kids (and grown-ups) were ready to rock! The set was amazing, opening with the rocky "Feel Good Hit of the Summer" and then taking the crowed from a mellow track like "The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret" before getting all shouty and heavy again.

I couldn't see anyone that wasn't enjoying themselves; other than the obvious frustration of those in the pit of not being allowed to crowd surf otherwise they would be thrown out. There weren't many interactions between the band and the audience, they were here to play and give everyone a good time; and that they did.

Ok so Nick Oliveri didn't play in the nude but Josh Homme was at his best trying to bounce on his one good foot (the other one was still poorly after being broken at one of their LA shows). It was also cool to see Mark Lanegan of the Screaming Trees; I'd never seen him live before and he popped on to sing a couple of songs and then came back to sing an encore. He stayed in one position the whole time but his voice is so powerful its all he needs.

I know a few people who were not that impressed with their latest album (R) but when sung live there is no denying that it gets you up and rocking. A great night and the few days of suffering with my ears is worth it. Oh, and its also the best thing I've done since being in Norwich!

jodi fitzalan

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