Paul Weller, also known as: “The Modfather,” was born in Surrey in 1958. Now at the age of 52, and playing solo since 1991, Paul is still rocking arena's throughout the UK, the M.E.N being the choice for tonight’s gig. It was a difficult journey to Manchester due to the snow but reflecting back, well worth it. Weller opened tonight’s set with the up-tempo and catchy 'Moonshine’ shortly followed by 'Sea Spray' and 'Up The Dosage'. Next was a hit by one of Paul's previous bands, The Style Council in the form of 'Shout To The Top'. This had the audience up on their feet dancing. From his new album, 'Wake Up The Nation' was his next two tracks, 'No Tears No Cry' and 'Trees'. Now going back to 1995 and his Stanley Road album, Weller plays his ballad of 'You Do Something To Me'. This was an epic performance which included a heart-felt guitar solo, shortly followed by the title track of his album 'Wake Up The Nation'. Now it was time for some songs from Weller's 'The Jam' days. The band rocked out 'Pretty Eyes' and 'What You Give Is What You Get'. The band exited the stage and lights went down, I was anticipating a final song encore but I soon found out I was wrong. Out came the band along with The Coral's singer James Skelly, the audience was in for a real treat. Now with James Skelly taking the microphone with guitar in hand and Weller on piano they blasted out 'Ticket To Ride', the Coral's very own 'Dreaming Of You' and 'Town Called Malice'. Weller finished off his set with a three song encore which consisted of 'Fast Cars/Slow Traffic', 'Art School' and finally 'Changing Man' Tonight really highlighted that Weller is still up there with the best of them, and his 'Wake Up The Nation' album is easily worthy of the Mercury Prize nomination. A must see act! Words and Photos: Ian Taylor
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