Radar went along to the much anticipated Busted concert at the AECC on Friday night.
Busted’s return to the stage after releasing their first album in over 10 years meant many were excited to relive some of their classic hits. People who have just recently discovered Busted would not have been disappointed with the set either as it also focused on new tracks from their album ‘Night Driver’. On reaching the AECC for Busted’s first ever performance in Aberdeen, you could sense the buzz for the oncoming show.
The show began with the supporting act - The Natives. The short time that they were on stage meant that the crowd enjoyed some feel-good yet more edgy music than what was expected from Busted, but, nevertheless, got the crowd going in anticipation.
The show opened with ‘Kids with Computers’ which was then followed by 3 more songs from their new album before the band played classic ‘Air Hostess’. The crowd reacted in frenzy each time a classic busted hit was played. When the famous intro to ‘Year 3000’ began to play, the atmosphere in the room was nothing short of nostalgic and crazy. When Busted left the stage, the crowd began to chant “one more tune” which meant Busted returned to play 3 more songs, including their first hit ‘That’s What I Go to School For’ which once again was received in hysteria by the crowd.
Matt Willis very enthusiastically began to talk about how it was the band’s first ever performance in Aberdeen and that it was one of the best reactions from a crowd at the tour so far. He also went on to say it would not be their last performance and received screams from the crowd when he suggested their return to Aberdeen next year. It was apparent that lead vocalist Charlie Simpson, who left the band - leading to their split in 2004 - displayed a much more laid back attitude, occasionally sipping on a beer and leaving Willis to get the crowd going.
Simpson left the band back in 2004 due to fear of turning to drink and drugs in his depression and a lack of creativity in the band. It has been rumoured that his return to the band is due to financial issues with his other band ‘Fightstar’ not turning over enough money to support his family.
Overall, the night was a success, especially for people who were expecting to be taken back to their younger years. It will be very interesting to see where Busted are this time next year.