On a cool evening in the heart of Plymouth, The Pavilions played host to an unforgettable night as Ocean Colour Scene brought their sold-out UK and Ireland tour to the city. With tickets flying out of the box office back in October 2024, the anticipation for this show was electrifying—and the band delivered a performance that cemented their legacy as one of Britain’s finest.
Setting the stage in style, Kula Shaker opened with a career-spanning set that harked back to the glory days of their debut album, K. Crispian Mills commanded attention with his wonderful tassled cowboy shirt and striking mint humbug-striped trousers, his Peter Pan-like youthfulness sparking curiosity and admiration in equal measure. Jay Darlington, resembling an even more wizardly Gandalf on keys, weaved psychedelic textures into the band’s sound, while the rhythm section provided a rock-solid foundation.
The organic lightshow, casting kaleidoscopic visuals on to the backdrop, added a hypnotic allure to their performance. Crispian’s infectious energy during their finale, Govinda, complete with a Freddie Mercury-esque call-and-response and epic guitar solos, left the crowd in awe. It was a reminder of why Kula Shaker’s place in British rock history is well-earned.
As the crowd tingled with excitement, Ocean Colour Scene made their entrance to Green Onions by Booker T. & the MG’s—From the very first note, it was clear this was going to be a special night. The audience, a mix of long-time fans and newer admirers, immediately threw themselves into the music with arms waving and voices harmonizing.
Drawing from their extensive back catalogue, the band delivered hit after hit, including The Circle, Hundred Mile High City, and the anthemic The Riverboat Song. Every track seemed to sit perfectly with the crowd, sparking memories and evoking that unmistakable feeling of communal joy that live music creates.
Simon Fowler’s voice carried a heartfelt authenticity, while Steve Cradock’s guitar wizardry was nothing short of magical—his use of effects elevating the music to mind-bending heights. The band were joined by two additional musicians on keys/guitar, and percussion, which enriched the sound and added more depth to their timeless classics.
The encore saw a tender stripped-back version of Robin Hood, with Simon delivering an intimate moment before the rest of the band returned for the climactic The Day We Caught The Train. As the final notes rang out, the room was on fire, the audience united in celebration of a band that has soundtracked so many lives.
Ocean Colour Scene are midway through their tour, but fans won’t have to wait long for their next opportunity to connect with the band. Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison will hit the road this autumn for a 14-date acoustic tour, bringing The Songs of Ocean Colour Scene to life in an intimate setting. With shows kicking off in Frome on October 2nd and concluding in Bexhill on October 25th, fans will have the chance to experience these classics in a whole new way.
For those lucky enough to witness this Plymouth performance, it was a night to remember—a testament to the power of music and the bands that make it.
Did you catch them on this tour? What was your highlight? Comment below and tell your story!
Words - Steve Muscutt
Pics - Chester Gherkin
