Gig review: Bad Manners at Brudenell Social Club, Leeds

It says much for the enduring popularity of Bad Manners that they played to a packed-out Brudenell during a two-night residency over the weekend.

The legendary ska and 2 Tone band, led by charismatic frontman Buster Bloodvessel, formed 50 years ago and remain a brilliant live act.

Saturday night was a complete sell-out (Sunday was not far off, either) and their performance predictably went down a storm.

After support from Max Splodge, Bad Manners finally emerged on stage at about 9.30pm; talk about good things coming to those who wait.

From start to finish, they were superb and it was easy to see why tickets were in such big demand for the Leeds leg of their current Christmas tour.

As with so many bands who have been around for decades, Bad Manners have moved with the times and stayed relevant.

Their music remains much loved and they reeled off their back catalogue of greatest hits, much to the delight of their fans who filled the Brudenell.

It is an intimate, atmospheric venue, and Buster Bloodvessel and his band members were on top form.

They played all their crowd-pleasers, such as My Girl Lollipop, Walking In The Sunshine, Woolly Bully, Lorraine, Special Brew and Lip Up Fatty.

Special Brew is a personal favourite of mine and the musical talent within the Bad Manners’ ranks is clear to see.

While Buster Bloodvessel often takes centre stage, all their members make huge contributions to the cause and the electricity on stage is undeniable.

All told, this was a great night and a rich tribute to the ska and 2 Tone scene from a band who always do it proud. Long may it continue.