The Black Keys supported by Band Of Skulls at Alexandra Palace, London.  February 2012.

OH, oh-oh….I’m a lonely boy, that’s what I was thinking in the build up to The Black Keys gracing the stage with their presence.   There I was on my own standing in the great hall of London’s renowned venue Alexandra Palace (better referred to as the ‘Alley Paley’) eagerly anticipating the arrival of Britain’s coolest band and, potentially the biggest gig of the year.  A great night was surely on the cards!

The night started warmly, fast paced and exciting.   A brilliant opening set by support band Band of Skulls from my neck of the woods: Southampton, began the night in spectacular fashion opening with lead single ‘Sweet Sour’ from their recent album ‘Sweet n Sour’.   They pleased the crowd by running through a ten-song set list including favourites such as ‘I know What I Am’, ‘Light of The Morning’, ‘Fires’ and ‘Death by Diamonds and Pearls’ along with recent hits ‘Bruises’ and ‘Devil Takes Care of his Own’.

Then after this emphatic set, The Black Keys finally arrive…starting the set with my personal favourite ‘Howlin’ For You’ caused a riot for all the fans who had entered the threshold this evening.   Throughout the set all the songs are well received, their exciting mix of old school blues, catchy crowd pleasing riffs and chorus’ from across their 8 albums is all on display tonight at London’s Alexandra Palace. 

Well known tracks such as ‘Tighten Up’ and ‘Ever Lasting Light’ and newer tracks ‘Lonely Boy’ and ‘Gold on the Ceiling’ from latest album El Camino attract, as expected, a rapturous response from the crowd. 

From the evidence tonight The Black Keys have created a sensational live buzz which is abundant in the air tonight.   All of the fans around me are clearly buzzing with excitement from tonight’s set list.  As predicted, a great gig all round.

Patrick Carney and Dan Auerbach deserve all the plaudits and accolades being thrown their way.  My only question is why, after 8 studio albums, that it is now they are being hailed as one of the biggest bands in the business.  Headline slots at festivals such as Coachella support surely these claims.

Any further/future tour dates or festival shows are not to be missed! 

George Gilbert