Vocals: Ritchie Broadley
Guitar: Vince O`Regan
Bass: Andy Mills
Keys: Paul Hodson (courtesy of Ten)
Drums: Lynch Radinsky
Set List:
Talk About Love
Who's Fooling Who
Don't Wanna Lose You
Heartbeat
Gabrielle
Out Of Love
After Midnight
Inspiration
Review:
Pulse were the first act of the day. The gig started late due to the road crew taking extra time to get the venue set up, which wasn't a huge deal, as Pennington's 2 was still overflowing with patron's watching the England / Sweden World Cup game.
A 1-1 draw kept most rabid fans happy enough!
It was a big day for Pulse, who were promoting the recent release of their debut album and their new lead singer, after an unsettling change only weeks before.
But you wouldn't have known it, as the band came out firing from the first bar of the first track.
As opening acts tend to do, the band played to a one third full venue as the crowd streamed in and took their positions. By the end of the set, the band had won many new fans – if the response from the patrons was any indication.
I have not seen the band live before, so I can't offer any comparison to the band's original singer. Ritchie Broadley is the new guy and for what it's worth, he put on a great show.
He moved around the stage like a mad man and engaged the crowd with as much enthusiasm as anyone on the day.
He also fronts an Aerosmith Tribute band and his stage experience showed.
His vocals were spot on, as were the rest of the band. Guitarist Vince O`Regan was clearly in his element and made the most of the 40 minute set.
One was forced to compare the delivery of Richie's vocals over those of Simon's on the album, which to me sounded different, but fine.
The band debut three new tracks, which sounded more natural, as they were written with Richie for his voice.
I was impressed with the three new tracks – Gabrielle, Who's Fooling Who and Out Of Love.
Of the three, the power ballad Gabrielle most stuck in my memory.
The band borrowed Paul Hodson of Ten for their keyboardist. A long day for Paul, as Ten weren't on for another several hours.
All in all, I don't think one could have wished for a stronger opening act for such a big day out.
Pic: Bruce Mee
Pic: Jeff Price