The Beacon in Bristol played host to an electrifying night of live music, headlined by the legendary Primal Scream, with support from Mozart Estate and Baxter Dury. The lineup was a carefully curated mix of eccentric pop, synth-infused rock, and the unmistakable swagger of one of Britain’s most enduring bands.
Opening the night was Mozart Estate, formerly known as Go-Kart Mozart, fronted by the enigmatic Lawrence—a cult figure in both music and literary circles. Their set was nothing short of ‘poptastic,’ brimming with jolly melodies and infectious energy.
Lawrence, ever the raconteur, took a moment to mention his recent book award—though details on which award and for what work remain elusive. Their track ‘Vanilla Gorilla’ went down particularly well with the audience, many of whom had gathered for Primal Scream on what was for them, a rare school-night outing.
Mozart Estate’s presence at Shiiine On Festival in Minehead last November had already left an impression on seasoned gig-goers, with their sound standing apart from the weekend’s other acts. Tonight, they proved once again that their quirky, offbeat pop has a place in the hearts of those who appreciate something a little different.
Next up was Baxter Dury, son of the legendary Ian Dury. If there was ever any doubt about his ability to carry forward his father’s legacy, tonight’s performance dispelled it completely.
His career began in the early 2000s, with his debut album ‘Len Parrot’s Memorial Lift’ (2002), which introduced his deadpan vocal delivery and cinematic storytelling. Over the years, his music has evolved, incorporating lush synths, hypnotic bass lines, and a mix of spoken-word and melodic vocals.
Baxter’s live performances are known for their intensity and unpredictability, with his charismatic stage presence adding an extra layer of theatricality to his music. His ability to blend humour, melancholy, and groove ensures that his shows are always engaging and tonight was no different.
Standout tracks from his set included ‘Miami’, a brooding, synth-heavy track from Prince of Tears, dripping with swagger and sardonic charm and ‘I’m Not Your Dog’ which is a standout track from The Night Chancers (2020), featuring his signature spoken-word delivery over pulsating rhythms.
As anticipation built, a last-minute setlist change just five minutes before showtime added an air of unpredictability. Fortunately, only one track was swapped, ensuring the audience still got the full force of Primal Scream’s latest and greatest.
Their set leaned heavily on tracks from their newest release, ‘Come Ahead The Remixes Volume 1’, which had landed just days earlier on 28 March 2025. But, as expected, they also reached deep into their back catalogue, delivering ‘Screamadelica’ classics that have long been staples of their live performances.
A particularly poignant moment came when ‘Innocent Money’ was dedicated to Mark Stewart of The Pop Group, a touching tribute to a fellow pioneer of boundary-pushing music. The band also debuted ‘The Centre Cannot Hold’ for the very first time, a thrilling surprise for those in attendance.
Closing the main set with ‘Country Girl’, the band took a brief pause before returning for a three-track encore that was nothing short of perfection: ‘Melancholy Man’, ‘Come Together’, and the anthemic ‘Rocks’.
Frontman Bobby Gillespie looked completely at ease, leading a band that sounded tighter than ever. The chemistry, the energy, the sheer joy of performing—it was all there, reaffirming why Primal Scream remains one of the most vital live acts in the UK.
Monday nights aren’t typically reserved for gigs of this magnitude, but tonight, The Beacon felt like a Saturday festival headline slot. The sea of smiles, the uninhibited dancing, and the collective euphoria proved that live music, when done right, smashed down the constraints of the calendar.
Primal Scream delivered. Bristol was treated. And for those lucky enough to be there, it was a night to remember.
Words and Pictures - Julian Baird
