SIX world-class musicians who have all worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, rocked Colchester for an unforgettable night of live music.
On February 29, the Lust for Life tour held its second night in a row at Colchester Arts Centre, in Church Street, for a sold-out event.
The group is currently embarking on a second UK tour following its first successful outing last year, and the show acts as a homage to punk icon, Iggy Pop and his seminal 1977 record, Lust For Life.
The Lust for Life band has some serious pedigree, with legendary drummer Clem Burke from Blondie, spearheading the project from the best seat on stage.
Clem is joined by the original Sex Pistols bassist, Glen Matlock, Pet Shop Boys dancer and broadcaster Katie Puckrik on vocals, and Iggy Pop and David Bowie collaborator Kevin Armstrong on guitar.
I sat down with Clem for The Gazette to speak about the Lust for Life tour before the gig.
However, it wasn’t until I stepped out of the drizzly weather and into the warm embrace of the Colchester Arts Centre, I had fully comprehended how special this show was going to be.
The show started with a bang, theatrics and a colourful light show filled the intimate venue as the six-piece opened with the explosive Iggy Pop song, Lust for Life.
From that point onwards, the band masterfully performed all nine songs from the album, with frontperson Katie saying: “tonight we're celebrating the genius of Iggy Pop".
Interestingly, as the second part of the night started, the audience were reminded of the all-star band they were witnessing, thanks to a compilation of video footage which introduced each member of the band.
Remarkable archival footage of David Bowie and Debbie Harry adorned a screen behind the band, followed by lovely messages from Heaven 17, Spandau Ballet, Sparks, appeared as well.
The impressively tight and charismatic band treated the crowd to songs like Blondie’s Hanging On The Telephone, David Bowie’s Absolute Beginners, The Stooges’ I Wanna Be Your Dog, and more.
More classic Iggy Pop songs such as Night Clubbing were thrown in for good measure as well.
After leaving the stage, the frenzied crowd stamped their feet and clapped for an encore, and yes, The Lust for Life band certainly delivered.
During the four-song finale, the band performed songs like the Iggy Pop & David Bowie track China Girl.
Glen Matlock took on vocals for his iconic Sex Pistols’ tune Pretty Vacant, and climatically ended with The Stooges’ Search & Destroy.
Overall, it was an exhilarating night that let some incredible musicians shine while paying homage to Iggy Pop and the many artists they have worked with over the years.
Possibly the greatest cover band in the world? I think so.
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