Photo Credit: Depot Live/Cuffe and Taylor
Words: Abi Jones
London synth-pop duo, Pet Shop Boys, invited a buzzing, sold-out Cardiff Castle crowd to groove to their greatest hits over the past 40 years. After playing across globally admired venues such as the O2 arena in London and Glastonbury festival, it’s no surprise that they were named the most successful duo in UK music history by Guinness world records in 1999. With their treasured dance tracks and iconic retro image, Pet Shop Boys continued their “Dreamworld: The Greatest Hits Live” tour in Cardiff on Thursday evening.
Sparking up the pre-party for Dreamworld was superstar DJ Dave Pearce. With the summer sun still at its peak; hats, sunglasses, and drinks were a common sight on the castle grounds, creating an authentic festival feel. Pearce was the foundation of this atmosphere, getting the crowd moving and warmed up (physically and metaphorically) before the main act everyone was eagerly waiting for.
By quarter to 9, the sun was fading and Cardiff Castle was ready for the night ahead. The empty stage was soon met with two figures we all know and love – Neil Tennant with microphone in hand and Chris Lowe on keyboard, both wearing futuristic masks, basking in the spotlight. Black and white visuals accompanied their monochrome outfits as they performed their first song of the evening, “Suburbia”, a real crowd pleaser from their debut album in 1986. At this point there wasn’t much movement from Tennant, even though he was standing still, the crowd was feeding off the energy from the dance tunes. Following shortly after was, “Can You Forgive Her?”, another hit that became their 13th top 10 single in 1993. Before launching into this fan favourite, Tennant took off his mask to greet the people of Cardiff and welcome them to Dreamworld.
Dreamworld’s anthems were completed with beautiful, fluorescent lights, professional stage management, and the occasional storytelling. Although Pet Shop Boys have a reputation for deadpan and low-energy performances, Tennant was animated and engaging with the crowd. He took a moment to explain how several songs had been written while on holiday in St Lucia, giving the audience a hint of what was to come next in the setlist. Complementing these songs were bright strobes of colour, which was different from the chic monochrome theme earlier on, but still a true representation of a typical 80s look – perfect for a Pet Shop Boys concert.
Their range of songs was truly impressive, it was great to see how they went from playing, “A new bohemia”, from their latest album, then swiftly transitioning to, “Jealousy”, the first song they ever wrote in 1982. Not only were they able to show their experience, but also their musical growth and ability, which was captivating to watch. Pet Shop Boys’ Dreamworld is built on nostalgia, fueled by shoulder pad tassels and metallic foil coats, it’s obvious that this tour is for the passionate, life-long fans. That being said, the encore thrilled everyone in the crowd, regardless of if they’re an avid Pet Shop Boys listener or just tagging along for a night out. Everyone knew they were in for a treat when the opening sounds of “West End Girls” rendered through the speakers with Tennant nodding along to the beat. It’s really no secret that this song is one of their best and most successful projects, considering it’s won multiple awards and was even deemed International Hit of the Year in 1987 at the Ivor Novello awards.
After a packed 2 hour set with outfit changes and non-stop energy from the thriving crowd, the duo closed the show with “Being Boring”. This was the perfect closing number as the lyrics explore a deeper look into their childhood and change in their lifetime. Tennant took a moment to thank the crowd and share his appreciation, “Look at you and your gorgeous castle!”.
This concert wasn’t just a celebration of music, but also a celebration of identity through past, present, and future. With over 40 years of performing to millions, crafting synth-pop anthems, and uniting fans worldwide, Pet Shop Boys still make full use of the stage they deserve.
Taped Magazine 