My, my, someone better fetch the anaesthetist after Shikari’s fanciful show at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on the 16th February. I mean, opening with System…Meltdown is bold. They knew they’d have the crowd instantly in a chokehold with that concoction.
There could be paragraphs about Shikari’s live visuals to be honest. As always, there was buzz around how they’re going to raise the bar that Shikari themselves have set and maintained, and now certainly jumped over. Even in the year since I’ve seen them last, it really is safe to say that they’re dedication to elaborate live visuals is tastefully ostentatious. Specifically Rou’s, now seemling iconic, climb up the screens, where is proseeds to ‘dive’ into the large light box, and the water visuals reflect himself being trapped underwater. Love lasers, confetti and sparkles? Yeah you really missed out, there.
As a whole, the band’s precision and affection for each other really glows, it’s clear that they are giddy on stage, savouring every moment. This extends all the way to the backs of the crowd where little pockets of dance parties emerged, and it was delightful. These parties were soon interrupted by the band moving to the back of the venue on a stage at the sound desk! Whilst Rou went on a parade around the balcony, hugging each person he encountered on this way around the venue.
Of course, the set list was pretty impeccable – highlights include “Jailbreak” with an extended trumpet version, played by Rou. The rooftop rendition of “juggernauts” and of course the extended D&B drenched version of “Sorry, you’re not a winner” which, of course, created an ecstatic crowd.
Anyway, it’s time we hand our keys back to The Dreamers Hotel, it was a pleasure to see one of my favourite live bands once again.
Live review and photos by Kate Feast – no use without permission
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