The 1865 Southampton reviews by real event-goers

Review of Riverside

I’ve know of Riverside for a few years now when a friend introduced me to their first album ‘Out of Myself’. They are in the same vein as one of my favs, ‘Porcupine Tree,’ so were quickly added to my list of ‘must see’ bands. Finally saw them back in the summer at Rambling Man Fair in Maidstone where I heard that they were going to tour. Checked out their tour and London and Southampton were in reach for me. London was sooner and closer so saw them there, and enjoyed it so much that as tickets were only some 20 quid, popped down to Southampton to see them again. The support bands of ‘The Sixxis’ and ‘Lion Shepherd’ were also excellent, and I shall have to seek out more of their stuff. The 1865 venue was easy to find and park nearby. Was a bit concerned about a standing gig as I have mobility problems, and was relieved to find seating along each side. Islington wins on that as they have a disabled seating area and offer a free carers ticket, but 1865 wins on the price of a pint, some £1.05 cheaper than Islington! My only criticism of the 1865 would be that the stage needs to be higher to give people sitting and those who are vertically challenged a better view. Would certainly visit the 1865 again, and I think it goes without saying that I will be looking out for the return of Riverside.

Review of Riverside

After a break of nearly five years I have finally managed to see Riverside again, and with great confidence they confirmed that they are still one of the top bands in the world of progressive music! In those years I have been lucky enough to see the likes of Steven Wilson, King Crimson, Opeth and Peter Gabriel, among many others, but very few could match Riverside's musical mastery, subtlety and precision!

The setlist, very heavy on the last two albums, may not be ideal for a fan of the darker side of the band. However, with a mix of heavy and more hopeful moments, together with a Tangerine Dream-style improvisation, it did a brilliant job in highlighting the band's versatility and maturity. Hopefully it will convince some fans (like me) that their music lost nothing in its transition to a lighter style - a combination of beautiful and thoughtful lyrics and energetising sounds made the concert a delight to ears.

Interestingly enough, the band were asked to play "very quietly" - below 93dB, due to venue restrictions. I believe this has contributed to making the music sound as clearly as ever - almost every note could be heard clearly, be it Michał's keys, Mariusz's sublime vocals, or Piotrs' guitar lines and drumming.

After the gig the players kindly and patiently greeted the fans, giving autographs, taking pictures, and being the nicest chaps of the evening!

All in all it was a great pleasure to see and meet Riverside once again. Let's hope they regain their strength quickly after the lengthy touring period and let us see them again soon! And for those who also appreciate Mariusz's solo work in the form of Lunatic Soul, just be patient, because Mariusz said after the show "sooner or later I will take Lunatic Soul on the road"!

Review of Riverside

Simply one of the best gigs I've ever seen! Riverside were amazing and played superbly throughout. I spoke to a couple of the band afterwards and they were very friendly and happt to talk. This band now rank up there with my all time favourite bands. Totally and completely recommended to all music fans.