The Undertones review – silver-haired fans get Teenage Kicks once more

Derry's punk rock pioneers, The Undertones, delivered a blistering performance at Edinburgh's Corn Exchange, treating a devoted, largely silver-haired audience to a breakneck 90-minute set featuring 30 songs. The concert was a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of their unique blend of punk humour and new-wave surrealism, which has resonated with fans for nearly five decades. Bassist Mickey Bradley, a founding member alongside brothers John and Damian O'Neill, wryly introduced "Teenage Kicks," the band's iconic 1978 debut single. This track, which propelled the band to fame and remains their most recognizable anthem, was played with raw, unvarnished energy. It still captures the essence of lonely, horny, and thrilling raw teen spirit, but its performance tonight also carried a poignant weight, reflecting the passage of time for both the band and their audience, and the complex emotions tied to nostalgia. The Undertones' anniversary tour is far from a purely sentimental journey; it's a high-octane celebration of their formative years. The setlist drew heavily from their first two albums, showcasing the open vulnerability and energetic urgency that defined their early output. The O'Neill brothers' guitars provided a driving force, their riffs crashing and intertwining as the band seamlessly transitioned from one track to the next, a hallmark of their dynamic live shows. The audience's enthusiastic response, with many seen hugging in shared appreciation between songs, underscored the deep connection fans have with the band's music. Formed in Derry in 1974, The Undertones emerged during a vibrant period of punk and new wave music in the UK. Their sound, characterized by catchy melodies, youthful exuberance, and often melancholic introspection, set them apart. "Teenage Kicks," released on the independent label Good Vibrations, became an instant classic, capturing the zeitgeist of adolescent rebellion and longing. The band's ability to craft songs that speak to universal themes of youth, love, and disillusionment has ensured their longevity. This Edinburgh performance demonstrated that their early material, far from being mere historical artifacts, still possesses immense power and relevance, capable of igniting the same passion in today's audiences as it did in the late 1970s. The sheer breadth of the 30-song set allowed for a comprehensive exploration of their musical evolution, solidifying their status as enduring icons of British and Irish music.