Released: August 11
Twenty-six years since Oasis drew 250,000 people to Knebworth, Liam Gallagher makes a bold return to the iconic venue for a show documented on his new live record.
Captured in Toby L.’s documentary from the concerts that took place over the Queen’s Jubilee weekend, and heralding the release of Liam’s third solo album, ‘C’mon You Know’, the 16-song set celebrates his solo hits and, of course, the legacy that helped him and Noel rise to Britpop legend status.
Liam and his band are on fiery form throughout, blazing through the likes of Shockwave and Everything’s Electric with a full-throttle intensity, while also showcasing the more reflective side of his voice in poignant moments such as Once and Slide Away.
Opening with Hello, the first song on the group’s second album, ‘(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?’ (1995), and segueing into ‘Definitely Maybe’ (1994) single Rock ‘n’ Roll Star, the sound of the crowd is prominent across an LP that strives to create the complete Liam Gallagher experience for fans at home.
Solo tracks like 2017’s Wall Of Glass and the recent singles More Power (complete with live choir) and C’Mon You Know feature prominently and shine light on his enduring creativity, three decades on from Oasis’ debut, with the feat of packing out the venue a testament to his success as a solo artist.
But closing out the LP is a run of classics, with Cigarettes & Alcohol and Some Might Say building up to the iconic triple-hit of Supersonic, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova – undoubtedly the highlight of an epic show and a treat for a new wave of fans who didn’t get to witness Oasis live the first time around.
Sounding better than ever, Liam’s in fine form vocally with a presence that commands attention and proves him as one of Britain’s all-time greatest rock showmen, with a sustained energy that, for devout fans of the ‘90s icon and casual listeners alike, proves irresistible.
Live records can be hit and miss but ‘Knebworth 22’ is a stellar display from one of the premier rock stars of a generation – here’s hoping those rumblings of an Oasis reunion mean a follow-up isn’t far behind…
