Biffy Clyro - Live Review

On Sunday, October 20, 2024, Biffy Clyro commenced their 'A Celebration of Beginnings' tour at London's O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, delivering a performance that was both a nostalgic journey and a testament to their enduring artistry. The Scottish trio, comprising Simon Neil and twins James and Ben Johnston, chose this intimate 2,000-capacity venue to reconnect with their roots, offering fans a rare opportunity to experience their early work in a setting reminiscent of their formative years.

The evening was dedicated to a complete live rendition of their 2002 debut album, Blackened Sky. From the opening chords of "Joy.Discovery.Invention" to the haunting tones of "Kill the Old, Torture Their Young," the band resurrected tracks that had long been absent from their live repertoire. Notably, songs like "27" and "Justboy" were performed live for the first time since 2014 and 2018, respectively, much to the delight of long-time fans. The audience's enthusiasm was palpable, with attendees reveling in the opportunity to hear these deep cuts.

Following a brief intermission, Biffy Clyro returned to the stage with a second set that seamlessly blended fan favorites with seldom-heard tracks. The energy remained high as they launched into "A Hunger in Your Haunt," followed by "Howl" and "Fever Dream," both making their return to the setlist after several years. The inclusion of "A Whole Child Ago" and "Modern Magic Formula," neither of which had been played live since 2017, showcased the band's commitment to honoring their extensive catalog.

A standout moment of the evening was Simon Neil's solo acoustic rendition of "Break a Butterfly on a Wheel," a track from the Similarities compilation, last performed live in 2014. This intimate performance provided a poignant contrast to the night's earlier intensity. The full band then reunited to close the show with "Stingin' Belle," a high-energy anthem that hadn't graced their live shows since 2019.

Throughout the concert, the band's gratitude for their fans' unwavering support was evident. Visibly moved, they expressed heartfelt thanks to the audience, creating a reciprocal atmosphere of appreciation and nostalgia. The 'A Celebration of Beginnings' tour continued with performances of The Vertigo of Bliss and Infinity Land at the same venue, before moving to Glasgow's Barrowland Ballroom for a repeat of the three-album showcase. For die-hard fans, these concerts offered a dreamlike experience, rich with rare performances and deep cuts, underscoring Biffy Clyro's dedication to celebrating their musical journey.