Music Review: China Crisis, The Cavern

Nov 12 2007 by Peter Grant, Liverpool Daily Post

IT WAS a much-awaited 25th anniversary tour – ending in their home town. China Crisis again proved why they are one of Liverpool’s greatest bands.

They still have integrity and anyone who saw them at the Summer Pops will know what great live performers they are.

They can hold an audience with a rare mix of new and old reflecting their own view the past has its place and they are fully aware that they are playing in the year 2007, too.

Eddie Lundon and Gary Daly were determined that this was not going to be just a greatest hits nostalgia tour.

Following their support act, The Kovacs musicians from Lipa (where Eddie is a lecturer), China Crisis launched into the opener – the dynamic African And White.

Their four-piece band were equally as slick as the two main men on a succession of pop classics which were joined by lesser-known tracks and even some unheard songs.

One highlight was You Did Cut Me which included an unusual yet inspired middle segment featuring a chunk of Minnie Ripperton’s harmonious soulful ballad Loving You.

Wishful Thinking, with Eddie on vocals, is still one of their most requested songs and here it was no exception with ethereal keyboards from Glyn Williams.

It’s a gem from the Eighties that sounds just as fresh now.

Arizona Sky and Gift of Freedom illustrated the diversity of their songwriting, whether love songs or political statements wrapped up in great melodies and clever lyrics.

The affable pair clearly loved the party atmosphere.

Superb vocalist Gary applauded his co-founder Eddie who was on equally fine form on acoustic guitar.

The Cavern ensured the wide-aged sell out crowd could all join in the fun thanks to monitors relaying this slick home-coming concert.

It was a real celebration of past meets present. Happy Birthday, China Crisis.