Originally published by L.S. Media. December 7th 2010.

To many, one of the stand out bands of the early 1980’s was The Human League. Genre defining and one of the early exponents of the slick style of video that the decade produced in abundance. Their music was considered much loved and has been parodied lovingly in certain advertisements since their early heyday.

Even though the 80’s are well behind us, there are some bands from that era that continue to tour and produce nights out that are well attended and a joy to be a part of. The Human League are no exception and from the very moment that Phil Oakley came out in a hooded coat alongside Joanne Catherall and Susan Ann Sulley the audience stood as one to enjoy one of the highlights of the year at the Philharmonic Hall.

The band started an evening of high energy and memories with Electric Shock and the absorbing Mirror Man before going through a set list which included songs from a very glorious past, a few fan favourites and an insight into the new album due out next year with the electrifying song Night People.

The audience was entertained brilliantly by the Sheffield band and it is testament to the power of the bands enduring appeal that even in times of austerity they manage to fill venues with their inspired lyrics and highly theatrical dance moves.

For the older fan that had been there since the heady days of the bands first, and too date only number one hit, the incredible Don’t You Want Me from the now iconic album Dare, there was a lot of wallowing in nostalgia with songs from their extensive back catalogue including the political Lebanon, the charming Electric Dreams and the song that started the whole phenomenon off, the energetic Being Boiled all being played to an appreciative crowd.

The Human League remain one of the best reasons to go and forget how bad sometimes life can be, they ooze style and there is no way you can come out of one of their gigs in anything but a good mood.

Ian D. Hall