Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * * *

Ever the consummate professional, Graham Gouldman requires no introduction, the music he and the rest of 10cc created is understood from the first bar, and universally enjoyed; and once more the band of merry, and talented groove setters rolled into Liverpool as part of their Ultimate Ultimate Tour, and the result was one that was the sense of perfection, sweet, accomplished, complete and exact proof of the legendary status of the music, and of the longevity of spirit of those that created them.

Whilst the original line-up of Graham Gouldman, Eric Stewart, Lol Crème, and Kevin Godley have long since parted company in terms of performing together, the fact that the music is still readily performed, and still sounds as exceptional as it ever did, is testament to the belief and love that the audience had for the group and continues to do so.

Returning to the stage with Graham Gouldman was the erstwhile souls of Rick Fenn, Keth Hayman, Paul Burgess, and Iain Hornal, and in the wake of the extensive and fulfilling career defining box set 20 Years, what was in evidence once again to the devoted crowd was just how seriously the music is taken. There is rightly room for nostalgia, we need to be able to understand the words we sing along to with greater clarity for than ever; however, it is more than that when you see one of the true greats of song writing performing with comfort and dedication songs that were so against the genres that come to define the 1970s.

Neither glam nor punk, elements perhaps of the progressive, especially when the audience and considers tracks such as Clockwork Creep, but it is undisguised rock that catches the ear, simple, honest, an homage to the Beatles in the process, and as tracks such Art For Art’s Sake, Good Morning Judge, The Dean And I, The Wall Street Shuffle, the wonderful and bountiful track created with the universal guitar genius of Brian May, Floating In Heaven, a cover of Iain Hornal’s own Say The Word, and I’m Mandy Fly Me, all soared in the atmosphere of the Philharmonic Hall, so the respect for excellent musicianship and time honoured lyrics was undoubtedly felt in the heart.

A tremendously sincere and almost stately evening, one that Philharmonic Hall hosts with absolute reliance, and when 10cc take to the stage, so the sheer professionalism is given its space and rightful dignity.

Ian D. Hall