On the opening night of a 20-date European Tour, The Pineapple Thief delivered a mesmerising performance at Manchester’s O2 Ritz. With the incomparable Gavin Harrison on drums, the band’s energy was palpable from the moment they stepped on stage.
The setlist, comprising of 15 songs plus a two-song encore, showcased the band’s versatility and depth. Opening with “The Frost” from the latest 2024 album release, “It Leads To This” Pineapple Thief set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Fans were treated to every track from the new album, each song delivered with precision and passion and of note never performed live before tonight.
But it wasn’t just the headliners who stole the show. Randy McStine, the supporting act, captivated the audience with his short yet powerful set. His incredible voice resonated through the venue, earning him a warm reception from the Manchester crowd. McStine’s performance served as the perfect prelude to The Pineapple Thief’s set.
One minor observation, the out-front sound wasn’t as good as I had expected. Harrison’s drum sound was at times lost in the overall mix and some of his more subtle and intricate playing was muffled. Maybe it was the acoustics of the room or opening night teething issues. That said he was still incredible and overall The Pineapple Thief’s live show at the Manchester O2 Ritz was spectacular. A setlist that spanned their latest album, interspersed with tracks from the band’s impressive back catalogue and a stellar supporting act in Randy McStine, it was a night that left fans craving more.
On that note, you can catch the final tour date at the 02 Shepards Bush Empire on 16th March, well worth the ticket price.
