We go ‘One Step Beyond’ as the Nutty Boys play ‘SKA’ borough

★★★★☆ (4/5)

MADNESS PERFORMING AT SCARBOROUGH’S OPEN AIR THEATRE
PHOTOCREDIT: JOHN HAYHURST

Attending a Madness gig is a journey through time and sound, a euphoric plunge into the depths of ska and new wave nostalgia.

This legendary band, with its roots firmly planted in the streets of Camden Town, London, never fails to deliver an electrifying performance no matter where they are, fans old and new are buzzing with excitement.

Suggs keeps reminding us “This is SKA..borough” as ‘One Step Beyond’ is echoing around the arena, the energy is palpable. The crowd, a vibrant mix of generations, erupts in cheers and chants, immediately swept up in the infectious rhythm.

Frontman Suggs, with his trademark suit and shades, has an effortlessly cool demeanour, commanding the stage with a blend of swagger and charm. His talky sing vocals are as robust as ever, seamlessly blending with the band's rich instrumental backdrop. The camaraderie among the band members is evident, their decades of performing together translating into a tight, polished sound that still manages to feel spontaneous and fresh.

An ‘Embarrassment’ this isn’t and this group of 60 somethings are fitter than some of the audience. The setlist is a well-curated mix of timeless classics and fan favorites. Tracks like "Baggy Trousers" and "House of Fun" spark massive sing-alongs, with the audience dancing and shouting every word.

The ska-infused beats and upbeat tempos create an irresistible urge to move, and it's impossible not to get caught up in the joyous atmosphere.

The band's signature brass section, featuring Lee Thompson on saxophone and the ever-animated Chas Smash, adds a vibrant, full-bodied sound that punctuates each song with energetic flair.

A standout moment of the evening is the performance of "It Must Be Love," a song that has become a cultural touchstone. As the familiar melody begins, the crowd sways in unison, singing along with heartfelt emotion. The band's delivery is both playful and sincere, capturing the essence of the song's enduring appeal. "Our House," a track that resonates with a universal nostalgia. The audience's response is nothing short of ecstatic, turning the venue into a sea of waving arms and beaming faces.

Madness also take the opportunity to showcase newer material, proving that their creative spark remains undiminished. They have even had a recent number 1 album, knocking Drake and Taylor Swift off their perch for a week at least.

Songs from their more recent albums blend seamlessly with the older hits, demonstrating the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. These newer tracks are met with some enthusiastic approval, but I’m sure the majority here would prefer to just get on with the hits, prompting several trips to the bar and longer queues for the Portaloos.

As the evening draws to a close with a rousing rendition of "Night Boat to Cairo," the energy in the place is still electric. Those fez wearing people get a chance to boogie again. The final notes ring out, and the crowd erupts in applause, reluctant to let go of the magic that has unfolded over the past hour and a half.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or a younger newcomer to their sound, a night with Madness is an unforgettable experience that will leave you humming their tunes long after the lights go out.