Portishead represents a small period of my life. I was a student back then. I remember listening quasi-obsessively to Dummy and Portishead while completing assessments in my small student room.

Last night i went to see them at Forest/Vorst National. The venue was absolutely packed out.

Very obviously, most people had also come for the previous albums, as indicated by the roars every time one of the old numbers was played. And they obliged: they alternated new numbers with old numbers, keeping everyone on their toes.

I was not familiar with the new album. And frankly, i can’t really judge yet – the balance of instruments and voice wasn’t always perfect from where i was sitting, so i’d like to hear the CD version. Some sounded interesting-ish, anyway.

Beth Gibbons was splendid – using her voice in the soft, plaintive, or teasing way we’re used to, but also trying new ranges for the new songs – sometimes operatic, and at one point even punk-like.

The whole experience was very enjoyable – can’t really say there was a lot of interaction with the crowd, but they are undeniably good musicians.

Good photo’s here

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