The View - Live at Marble Factory, Bristol - 17th November

As has been the case for the last 18 years, the crowd need no encouragement to chant ‘The View Are On Fire.’ Indeed, the temptation to play on it in every review the band receive is palpable. It’s almost too easy.

Yet The View’s reaction to the chant borders on indifference or embarrassment. Towards the end of tonight’s set, Kyle Falconer thanks the crowd and states his appreciation, but one can’t help but wonder if it’s something of an albatross for them.

Otherwise it’s business as usual for the Dundonians. Rattling through an 18-song set in just 75 minutes, it’s a high-octane skirt through their career, from the thunderous opening shot of ‘Glass Smash’ to the whimsical ‘Typical Time’, tacked on at the very end, all delivered with a devil-may-care passion.

The band have – rightly or wrongly – acquired a reputation as ramshackle but that’s ill-informed, with a resolute tautness throughout. ‘Sunday’ (their best and most underrated song from 2011’s Bread & Circuses) includes several false endings and a rock out but no displacement.

The gig does feel as if it’s teetering on the edge of chaos, but that’s primarily due to a buoyant crowd. Earlier in the set, ‘Comin’ Down’ segues into ‘Wasted Little DJs’ seamlessly, the latter featuring one of many displays of proficiency from guitarist Pete Reilly, looking fetching in tartan trousers and leather jacket.

https://www.live4ever.uk.com/2023/11/the-view-live-marble-bristol/