It's been a while since I saw the Answer, having given their last few London shows a miss after being a bit disappointed by recent performances. The lure of one of my favourite venues and a decent ticket price tempted me once again.I'm delighted to report that it was well worth the effort. The band were on top form in a packed & loud venue, playing songs old and new. Indeed this show was nominally to support the release of their new DVD and was meant to be a "Media Event". By the moshing at the front and singing elsewhere, it looked more like a fans show to me. The volume was particularly loud and I was pleased they included their recent Record Shop Day 7" "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw" which went down very well.
Unfortunately I upset a member of the audience - by tapping his lower leg with my foot (to get past carrying beer). He seemed to think I was kicking him! Had to explain that I thought a light tap was better than spilling the beer all over him and offered appropriate apologies. Not sure he agreed, or indeed could hear due to the volume. That didn't spoil the evening though. Based on this performance, I won't be leaving it so long before seeing them again.
As a footnote we went for a "quick half" in Molly Mogg's afterwards. Were a bit surprised to find a bloke in drag hit the stage shortly after we arrived. Feared the worst, but a medley of East End classics (think "Maybe It's Because I'm A Londoner", "Roll Out The Barrel" etc) was actually really good cheesey fun - so much so we even stayed for another. I'm guessing we were the only straight blokes in the place!
