The queue outside the Apollo was formidable, and was a strange mix. Indie kids sporting John Power t-shirts, students, and the 'big fans' forming the core. They were in for a treat. First band, The Nicotines didn't start too well when the drummer managed to break his snare half way through the set. 'Mary Wana' however is just brilliant, and the crowd warmed well to this bubble-gum, punky number. Next came Audioweb, and for all their trad Madchester image, heavy guitars and dance loops they were terrible. Their lead singer anounced at one point that "Us and Cast are the best fucking bands in the world." I'm glad he thinks so, not many inside the Apollo would have agreed.

The expectation levels were high for Cast's big entrance, curiosity was rife about the material from much maligned new album 'Mother Nature Calls'. Cast came on and opened with a song from the new album, which answered their critics. It was brilliant, and as the night wore on proved to be one of their weaker songs!! John Power, reserved bass player for The La's, seemed to be no obvious front man. However he leads the band with such an aura of self confidence, the crowd love him. Lead guitarist Liam Tyson is superb, and gives the impression that he just loves being in a band!

Cast particulary shone on new tunes like The Who-esque 'Free Me' the softer 'Guiding Star' and the fantastic, if lyrically deficient 'Flying.' However the old favourites were there too, 'Sandstorm' sent the crowd wild. 'History' and 'Promised land' also impressed and although sounding weak on 'All Change' sound great live. Cast came on for an encore after a prolonged break, and played out with 'Alright' and another new song. This ended with the rest of Cast walking off stage to leave whirl wind drummer, Keith, to complete a mammoth drum explosion. Eventually, probably just before his sticks snapped, he hit the crash symbol to wild applause. Cast were brilliant live, and the material from the new album sounded promising. They just seem to get better!

Reviewed by Greg O'Keefe