Gig Review: The Levellers - Leeds Town Hall

The Levellers have been one of the most successful touring acts of the last 20 years: their live performances are always energetic and entertaining. With the spirit of groups like The Clash mixed with Celtic and folk influences they still have a large following. Last year they released their Greatest Hits album and a documentary film - a Curious Life, which looked back at the group's career so far.

It was this film that formed part of the first half of tonight's gig. Narrated by the band's bass player Jeremy Cunningham, the film highlights their past from the early days to head ling Glastonbury, along the way there is the drug issues and how stardom affected Jeremy. For the casual fan it gave an insight to the band and how they operate. Personal and frank you thought you knew a lot more about them after watching the film. A short question and answer session followed with gave the audience a chance to find out more about the group. It was a fine way to set up the second half of the gig.

It is very hard to sit down whilst listening to their tracks, so while it might have seemed a good idea to play the acoustic part of the show in seated venues, the audience were on their feet for the opening number, The Boatman.

Deciding to play the tracks that worked best acoustically, this was no greatest hits set but instead Edge of the World, Alone in the Darkness and Barrel of a Gun were played to the appreciative audience.

Lead singer Mark Chadwick often witty and observational is a great front man.

Encoring with Carry Me, the fans were in jubilant form and really the track is performed just the same as when they perform it in a full live setting.

You always come away from a Levellers gig feeling elevated and entertained: tonight was no exception. Whether in an acoustic setting or full live setting, there are not many acts touring that still have the spirit and energy that The Levellers have.