SOFT PLAY Live at O2 Institute Birmingham

21 Oct

SOFT PLAY's recent Birmingham show at the O2 Institute on 18th October, supported by Wonk Unit and Panic Shack, was an exhilarating night that perfectly encapsulated the raw energy and spirit of live punk music.

Wonk Unit, who have been described by Art Rocker as “one of the most unique bands in modern punk rock”, kicked off the evening. Their charismatic frontman immediately captured the audience's attention, despite the room still filling out, as his sharp wit and engaging personality made for a genuinely enjoyable performance. The way he interacted with the crowd was commendable; he effortlessly drew people in, creating a sense of camaraderie that set a lively tone for the evening. Each quip and joke landed well, making him a highlight of the night, even before the main acts took the stage.

Following Wonk Unit was Panic Shack, a Welsh band that brought a refreshing wave of female punk energy to this gloomy night in Birmingham. Their performance was marked by a fierce intensity that resonated with the audience. With an undeniably powerful presence, the fourpiece commanded the entire audience’s undivided attention. They seemed focused on delivering their message through their music, rather than through banter, which was a refreshing change in an often male-dominated genre. The audience was captivated by their performance, illustrating the evolving inclusivity of the punk rock scene, with women emerging at the forefront.

As the night progressed, the atmosphere in the venue transformed into something electric, with the crowd becoming increasingly rowdy after each performer. When SOFT PLAY, formerly known as SLAVES, eventually took to the stage, they immediately seized control of the room. The English punk rockers’ innate ability to connect with their audience was remarkable; despite a few disruptions, including a broken leg during “Bin Juice Disaster”, they maintained their sense of humour and camaraderie. Their willingness to engage with the crowd during these moments showcased their dedication to the audience, ensuring that everyone felt included and looked after throughout the chaos of the night.

The intensity of SOFT PLAY’s performance reached new heights with songs like “Punk’s Dead", which saw several audience members swept up in the fervor and excitement. By this point, the crowd was fully invested, and it quickly became clear that the band had them eating out of the palm of their hands. Tracks like “Girl Fight”, where they encouraged fans to “kick the shit out of each other” for a brief seven seconds, spurred a wild mosh pit that epitomised the spirit of punk. The infectious energy of the performance, combined with the audience's enthusiasm, created a memorable atmosphere that made for one of the rowdiest crowds Birmingham's O2 Institute has ever witnessed.

Without a doubt, SOFT PLAY's Birmingham concert was one of the best shows to leave its mark on the city this year. The seamless blend of humour and unmatchable energy created a night that was not only entertaining but also significant in showcasing the evolution of the genre. Each act brought something unique to the table, but it was SOFT PLAY who truly stole the show, leaving the audience exhilarated and demanding more. With their incredible performance style and unwavering commitment to their fans, it's undeniable that this is a duo to keep your eyes fixed on.