CAN it really be 44 years since Duran Duran released Girls on Film - the song which first propelled them into the public consciousness as one of the standout bands of the 1980s?
It’s hard to believe judging by this energetic performance which the now four-piece group put on for fans at Chelmsford City Live on Saturday.
As one fan said: “My favourite is John - he looks great - like a fine wine.”
They all look great actually but it’s the music which impresses and withstands the test of time with the hit songs sounding as good today as they ever did.
The setlist centred on the band's heyday. Girls on Film is there along with Wild Boys, Hungry Like a Wolf, Say a Prayer and Rio.
Their underrated James Bond song View to a Kill arrives with a bang and a haunting version of Come Undone and noughties dance classic (Reach Up for the) Sunrise were reminders their greatest songs are not just confined to the 80s.
It was surprising support act Nile Rodgers did not make an appearance for their 2015 collaboration Pressure Off though he did get the nod as the creator of another Duran classic Notorious which also earned a place on the set list.
“Shall I introduce you to the band?” asks frontman Simon Le Bon around halfway through the set. The “band” are the aforementioned and original member John Taylor, keyboardist Nick Rhodes and drummer Roger Taylor who all attract huge roars from the crowd.
One of the best parts of this concert was the intimacy. The racecourse concerts are small and the views are good from wherever your position. And while the venue had some issues getting people in and out of the concerts, there is no denying it felt like a treat to see such a stellar band in a small yet atmospheric setting.
Nile Rodgers and Chic - riding high from a much-lauded Glastonbury appearance - were the support along with JC Stewart who could quite possibly be the next big thing with quality songwriting and a killer voice.
But the night belonged to Duran Duran and as the happy crowd left to battle to get home, there was an undeniable sense of joy having seen one of the greatest UK bands triumph in an intimate venue in the heart of Essex.
4.5/5 Stars
Courtesy Essex County Standard
Photo courtesy Cuffe & Taylor
