On Friday night, Kelly, Richard, Adam, Jamie and guest keyboard player, Tony stunned their fans once again and raised the roof on the Manchester Arena.

Living in Bournemouth myself, the fans here always blow my mind! Every single was person up on their feet, singing, waving their hands in the air, and applauding. The energy levels were flying and not one person left the venue without a smile on their face.

This band has been around for over twenty years and to say they get better every time I see them, would be a massive understatement. It’s been said before, but I always like the mix of fans at a ‘phonics gig. You can always expect a good mix of generations, couples, friendship groups and of course, VIVA Ems and I!

We were entertained by classics such as Have A Nice Day, Hand Bags & Glad Rags and Maybe Tomorrow (some of which were accompanied by 3 girls on strings), the sound was mesmerising. They then played songs from their most recent album Graffiti On The Train – the single by the same name and the moody, yet soulful Caught Cheating, which are fast becoming classics.

Photo: @stereophonics

Personally, I was waiting to hear the new tunes from their ninth studio album Keep The Village Alive. White Lies saw Kelly demonstrate his awesome piano skills, which was incredibly powerful, my favourite, Cest La Vie, and the beautiful I Wanna Get Lost With You were all spot on.

Kelly’s vocals, as always were flawless, drummer Jamie played an incredible solo, whilst their bandmates were interacting with the crowd, increasing the intensity that surrounded us, as if that was even possible! Bright green and pink lasers were shot over the crowd, reflecting the band’s energy on to their audience.

To close the show, they played Dakota, which is one of them songs that everyone knows, and quite frankly if you don’t, you should stop what you’re doing and listen to it immediately.

As the song started, coloured balloons emerged from the back of the arena and quickly ended up on the stage, where Richard and Adam showed off their hidden football skills by kicking them back into the crowd.

As Kelly sang his last note, streamers fired out from the stage and on to what can only be described as a sweaty and ecstatic crowd!!

Manchester thanks for having me, you never disappoint!

See you soon x

Find on Facebook or follow on Twitter @stereophonics

Words: Charlotte Fennings

Photos: Stephen Farrell 

Album 1