The lads kicked off proceedings with the unleashing of their 1977 debut album Damned, Damned, Damned. This punk masterpiece went down a storm with a full house and the likes of New Rose and Neat, Neat, Neat led the pack and hot on their tails was The Stooges cover 1970 a.k.a. I feel Alright.
After that rocket there was plenty to follow from a whole host of other releases. The Damned are not short on quantity or quality and it has not all been punk rock although this is where the guys offer their ultimate expertise. The dalliances with goth and psychedelia can also throw up trump cards. However, it is pumped up produce such as: Disco Man, Smash it Up, Wait for the Blackout, Love Song, Melody Lee, Anti-Pope, Generals and a super souped Ignite which proved to be the major hits of the evening.
Perennial entertainer Capt. S. Does his usual best to comes in with his quips and as a double act he and Mr. V. Offer lots of glee! The quintet keep it tight with options towards the ostentatious afforded to the players; and, there was also room for old boy Paul Gray to get on board for a couple of tunes. There was disappointment that certain songs did not appear in the extravaganza but the appearance of the initial long player was a treat that many folk would not have expected in 2016 (so we have to be grateful!).
All in all it was a Damned good night and these guys could still wipe the floor with acts a third of their age. I just can’t be happy Today was not present-but perhaps that was for a reason as every person present would not have been issuing such a sentiment! The good ship Damnation departed The Welsh capital and it was full of a joyous crew of revellers. Come back soon because the act that kicked off the UK punk scene with its first single in 1976 is still a wonder to witness!
