The NME Bababyshambles gig at the Brixton Academy was one of the most hotly anticipated gigs of the past months. Fresh out of rehab a clean Pete Doherty looked better and five years younger since I saw him last. No doubt the split from Kate Moss and a well received second album has boosted the spirits of the band who looked like last summer were certainly going to split.Even though 2007 no doubt will go down as the band’s annus horribilis it seems like they have put their demons behind them and will finally get the respect that they deserve.
The band certainly sounded very solid, well rehearsed and gelled better than I have seen them in the past. I always considered Babyshambles as an interim band biding time for the reunion which no doubt will happen some point soon. That said their second album “Shotters Nation” has established them in a different league and I am sure the fans and critics will start to view Babyshambles as a permanent fixture.
The Courteeners who supported them were less convincing. This is the second time that I have seen them and although I think they will do well can’t see what all the hype is about.
Written by John Rahim