Roxette played at a sold-out O2 Arena in London. It was the first time Roxette played in this venue, which opened its doors in the mid 2000ies and has become the concert venue in London in the past years. Many major artist have played here since then so it was almost almost about time for Roxette to play here finally. The place is impressive. And so is the sound!
Unfortunately not many people had taken their places during Eskobar, but those who were there did enjoy the tunes of this fab band. And then it hit me. When Daniel mentioned it was their last show with Roxette outside of Sweden. In a way it was also Roxette’s last show outside of Scandinavia or Nordics (if you don’t count the concert in Poland). It’s really just a few more shows to go and then…? Let’s hope there will be more to come. LIVE, that is (we already know there are some releases on the way!). Wherever in the world. This band proved yesterday once more that they are unstoppable and they bring and spread lots of joy and fun and smiles wherever they go. And the world needs more of these memorable moments!
Before the show we chatted with our seat neighbours. They asked where we come from, if we have seen Roxette live before… and we, not knowing how seated concerts are here, wondered if people would stand up. None of the locals could give an answer. Just a “We hope so! But it very much depends on the music and mood” I thought to myself… if it’s up to that then we will sure have a party! And it was.
People stood up during the intro already, while Marie and Per and the band were taking their places on stage. “So it is standing! It’s gonna be fun!” shouted the guys next to me with a big smile. Security made sure however that nobody was standing in the corridors or running to the front, not even during The Look. But oh was it fun!!
I was totally taken by surprise by all the screaming and the sing along. And this (besides the great magic moments with the band) is what I will remember forever. Wherever I have seen Roxette around the world, it is this proud and happy feeling of hearing and experiencing thousands of people sing along to their songs. Not only the major hits but also other less known songs. Like when people scream and clap at the surprise of Marie singing Paint. The noise when Roxette reappeared after the short break to play LTYH and The Look was just impressive.
What happened in London can probably be summarized in these two videos below.
Marie did improvise a lot at the endings of the songs or during bridges not only with yeahs!, she did add a jazzy soulish touch at some points and her voice was so strong and powerful… that made me drop my mouth open (just check the videos out!). Per was running from one side to the other, looking at the audience very directly and asking us to sing and clap even louder. With his permanent smile on his face. And the band… wow!! They are all so great together. They have their ‘insider jokes’, those funny moments with each other that have now become part of the show… Chris played the British anthem, which ended with everyone singing.. god save the queen!
Per also seemed to be in a chatty mood. I think of all shows I have seen, this had the funniest talks in between songs.
And this time a special mention about lovely Dea. Since I was sitting in row 6 I had a better overview of what was going on on stage and saw some details that just confirmed what an important part of the band Dea is. She does her job amazingly, always cheering everybody up, greeting those she knows, she has found her place in the band, she has her funny insider moments with Chris, Magnus (Dangerous), Marie (Stars, Dangerous, She’s Got Nothing On) and Per (IMHBL), and besides that she always keeps an eye on Marie to help out whenever needed. And also celebrates and looks amazed when Marie delivers like yesterday. Probably because of this (and my guess is much more) Marie introduces her during Watercolours as ‘my very good friend Dea!’
Next stop Sweden. I really hope Sweden welcomes and celebrates Marie and Per and the band as Europe has done so far because they are unstoppable and one should only be proud of them all and they deserve it.
LONDON UPDATE: Oh yeah!!! Such a great evening at the O2 Arena tonight!!! What a wonderful crowd! Great band in spite of that Prof von L couldn’t get out of bed early in the morning due to back and neck pains. Check out the vids for more info re this!!!
Nevertheless, a breathtaking experience of positive energy. Thanx London, always a treat to play here! And boy, did you sing!!!! Cheers, P.
Setlist
Sleeping In My Car
The Big L.
Stars
Spending My Time
Crash! Boom! Bang!
Crush On You
She’s Got Nothing On (But The Radio)
The Heart Shaped Sea
Watercolours In The Rain / Paint
Fading Like A Flower
How Do You Do!
It Must Have Been Love
Dressed For Success
Dangerous
Joyride (intro: God Save the Queen)
Extra
Listen To Your Heart
The Look
Articles and photos
Iain Dale
The Independent
Mirror
rexfeatures.com
flickr.com – Gavin Dodds (Tigershoot)
flickr.com – David Turnbull