sodagreen have seen their fair share of trials and tribulations over the years. From fighting a rights battle for the band’s name, to the mere feat of staying together for two decades, it’s clear to see how and why the six members – Greeny (lead vocals), Claire (bass guitar), Kay (guitar), Wei (drums), A Fu (guitar) and A Gong (piano and viola) – have the confidence to own the stage even before they step on it.
From the get go the remit was clear to all: no photos, no videos, with all phones expected to be put into bags. This simple (and frequently repeated) request put in place before the concert made it clear that sodagreen wanted nothing to distract from their artistry and their connection to their fans.
And boy, did it work like a charm.
The audience in the OVO Arena Wembley hung onto every note, every lyric and every light change as sodagreen performed a beautifully crafted set, with every choice coming across as meticulously thought through. They paused at moments to laugh and joke with one another and with the crowd, and when microphones were put to the crowd during songs, the fans sang back with aplomb.
Much has been spoken of late regarding if concert atmospheres are declining when artists are performing to a sea of phones as opposed to fans engaging with them, whilst by contrast many still support the idea that these online videos and photos are a lifeline for certain demographics of fans that are getting more and more priced out of live events.
Perhaps then it is down to long term veterans like sodagreen – who have more power and clout than an up-and-comer – to set such terms of engagement; to ensure they can see smiles on fans’ faces, to be able to interact, wave and ask questions knowing that every person present is truly present. It was a beautiful concert to witness for this very reason, with attendees smiling not just at the band, but laughing and interacting with each other, whilst also appreciating every moment of the celebratory show sodagreen had put together for them.
Though all the members are in their forties, they were spry and energetic throughout, with dance moments and pop-rock anthems threatening to raise the roof off Wembley Arena. Yet it was also a performance for those that love seeing skilled instrumentalists do their thing. Shots on the screen switched between all the members, allowing viewers to appreciate the live skill and synergy between the six of them. The UK is well known for their love of live gigs, and sodagreen brought their A-game.
The group’s 20th Anniversary Celebration here in the UK’s capital turned out to be a magical experience for all, whether you had followed them since day one, or if you’d only found them recently. In endeavouring to prove why live concerts – and a sodagreen live concert, no less – are still special, once-in-a-lifetime experiences worth your money, sodagreen put on a special, unforgettable performance for all.
Tickets for the last stop of sodagreen’s 20th Anniversary Concert in Berlin can be found here.