Cast - Live Review

There’s something about a Saturday night gig that just feels different. Maybe it’s the sense of release after a long week at work. Tonight, a proper mix of ages, packing out the O2 Academy Oxford, all ready to let loose. Whatever it is, Cast know how to tap into it. The place was buzzing before a note was played, and you could feel the anticipation humming through the room. After a reschedule, the band’s gratitude was obvious. John Power, all smiles, thanked us for sticking with them and waiting for the new date.

This tour marks 30 years since the album All Change, and Cast leaned right in, opening with “Follow Me Down” and then rolling through the album, mostly in order, but with a few playful shuffles. There’s a certain magic in hearing a record played front to back, especially one that’s woven into so many lives. “Promised Land” and “Sandstorm” landed early, but it was “Fine Time” that really set things off. Power introduced it as the single that started it all, and the crowd’s reaction said it all. Arms in the air, voices raised, a little bit of 1995 echoing off the walls.

“Walkaway” was another big moment, dedicated with warmth and a touch of nostalgia. The years have only deepened its bittersweet edge. “Reflections” brought out some of the night’s best guitar work. Sharp, melodic, and just the right side of loose. By the time they hit “Alright,” the whole room was moving, and it felt like the album’s spirit was alive and well, not just a museum piece.

But Cast weren’t just here to relive the past. After the All Change set, the stage dipped into darkness, the crowd chanting for one more song. Power reappeared, grinning: “Don’t worry, we’re not going anywhere. We’ve only just started.” What followed was a marathon: 22 songs in total, a reminder that this is a band who know how to put on a proper show.

There’s a confidence that comes from years on the road, and maybe from spending last year opening for Oasis on their huge reunion tour. I was lucky enough to catch one of those Wembley nights and got in early just to see Cast. That was a huge stage, but there’s something about seeing them in a packed club that just hits different. Cast felt both relaxed and razor-sharp, clearly enjoying themselves as much as the audience.

New material got a look-in too. With a new record, Yeah Yeah Yeah, dropping in two weeks, they slipped in fresh tracks like “Poison Vine” and “Love Is the Call.” They slotted in naturally, full of the same melodic punch and singalong choruses that made the band’s name. If tonight was anything to go by, the new album’s going to be worth a listen.

Throughout, the mood was celebratory but never self-congratulatory. Cast’s sound, jangly, driving, with that unmistakable Mersey swagger, still hits home. There’s a warmth to their live show, a sense of community that’s hard to fake. Maybe it’s the years, maybe it’s the songs, or maybe it’s just the way Power connects with a crowd. Whatever it is, it works.

By the time the encore rolled around, “Guiding Star” and “Free Me” closing things out. The room was still full, voices hoarse but happy. Walking out into the Oxford night, you got the sense that everyone had been part of something a little bit special. Not just a nostalgia trip, but a reminder that some bands really do know how to do it right.

Before all that, though, we had Pastel opening the night. A band I’d been wanting to catch for ages. They didn’t disappoint. There’s a confidence to their sound, all swagger and big hooks, and you can see why Cast picked them for this run. Apparently, Cast liked their record so much they brought them along for the tour. Judging by the crowd’s reaction, they’re on for great things. It’s always a bonus when the support act feels like a proper event, and tonight, Pastel set the tone perfectly.