FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS // FAT SAM'S, DUNDEE
Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls
live in Dundee at Fat Sam’s
★★★★☆ (4/5)
The cheers that erupt from the crowd as the lights dim and the band takes to the stage betray the deep affection Frank Turner has cultivated with his fans. One that sees a night filled with just as many high-octane circle pits as whisper-quiet, intimate moments.
Launching with the track “Recovery” Turner, flanked by his excellent backing band, The Sleeping Souls, demonstrates a sound that succeeds in being polished and dense while also adhering to the punk/folk roots of the material.
The second leg of “The Never Ending Tour of Everywhere” is in support of Turner's latest number 1 album FTHC (Frank Turner Hardcore) and, as such, the new tracks make their presence known in the setlist. Thankfully the new additions fit alongside long-time fan favourites with ease. A stand-out comes in the form of the punk-rock “Punches” which alternates between venomous verses and anthemic choruses.
After this initial breakneck sprint of 14 songs, the backing band leaves the stage, and the crowd is treated to a 3-song solo set, which allows Turner to display the strength of his frontman charisma. In particular the acoustic rendition of “Josephine” shows the beautiful ballad at the heart of the normally bombastic tune. An intimate moment beautifully executed.
This solo set is not only for love songs, however, as the protest song “Thatcher Fucked the Kids” elicits one of the loudest responses from the crowd during the entire night.
The third act of the set returns The Sleeping Souls to the stage, and they barrel through a run of powerful tracks. Even into the encore, the strong messages are still deftly delivered. Sombre “1933” warns about the trends and historical parallels in modern-day politics. While “A Wave Across a Bay” is the most reflective moment of the night. A tribute to “Frightened Rabbit” frontman Scott Hutchinson, it is impossible not to be moved.
Alongside these poignant tracks, there are moments of emotional catharsis, especially from the punk rock elegy “Four Simple Words” which closes the set. Propelling the crowd into a circle pit frenzy, wringing the last drops of potential energy from the enthusiastic fans.
As the sound dies down and thank you is offered, by both Turner and the fans, the assembled crowd has been treated to a masterclass in musical showmanship. Delivering emotional renditions, fan favourites and prescient takes on modern life, the band has enthused a sense of camaraderie between the assembled cohorts tonight.