FAT BOY SLIM - SOUNDS OF THE CITY 2024 // CASTLEFIELD BOWL, MANCHESTER

fat boy slim performing at manchester’s
sounds of the city at castlefield bowl

★★★★☆ (4/5)

FAT BOY SLIM PERFORMING AT MANCHESTER’S CASTLEFIELD BOWL
PHOTOCREDIT: CHARLIE MORLEY

The supporting act of Absolute set the pace for the rest of the night, managing to electrify the crowd ready for the main event. He played classics as-well as new songs fitting the the wide age range of the 8,000 listeners around the venue. 

From the moment Cook stepped on stage, the atmosphere was electric. He immediately set the tone for the night. The crowd erupted as the familiar build-up and explosive drop filled the venue, creating an instant connection between the DJ and his audience.

Throughout the night, Fatboy Slim masterfully mixed his classic hits with newer tracks and creative remixes. "The Rockafeller Skank" had everyone on their feet, its infectious hook resonating through the crowd as they chanted along. The visuals and lighting accompanying the track were perfect as strobes of yellow and green flew across the sky followed with a vibrant collage of retro graphics and dynamic light shows, these light shows and displays were perfectly in sync with the music enhancing the sensory experience and adding another layer of excitement to the performance.

One of the highlights of the evening was "Praise You." The song’s uplifting, gospel-inspired vocals brought a sense of unity and joy to the crowd, with everyone swaying and singing along. The energy was palpable, and it was visually clear that this track held a special place in the hearts of many fans.

The legendary DJ Fat Boy Slim certainly did  wow the sold out Castlefield Bowl with his hard hitting legendary classics. Right here right now and praise you provided huge crowd pleasing tracks that left this multi generational crowd bouncing. 

As far as outdoor venues go this one does not disappoint. With it being set against the epic Manchester skyline with breathtaking light displays hitting an audience of bucket hat wearing die hards, this electrifying atmosphere lifted one and all for their own superstar DJ moment in one of the greatest cities of the world.

In addition to his classic tracks, Fatboy Slim included several unexpected remixes and mash-ups, showcasing his versatility and creativity. These surprises kept the set fresh and unpredictable, proving that even decades into his career, Cook still has plenty of tricks up his sleeve.

Overall, Fatboy Slim's concert at The Castlefield Bowl was a testament to his enduring appeal and talent as a DJ. His ability to blend nostalgia with innovation, coupled with an outstanding production, made for a night that fans will remember for years to come. It was a celebration of music, energy, and the timeless joy of dancing to great beats for sure made the night a once in a lifetime experience.

review + photos by: charlie morley