Julian Casablancas @ Leeds Met SU 10th December

Any fan of The Strokes will understand just how special it was to see front man Julian Casablancas perform his solo album Phrazes For The Young right here at our university. Bringing with him from New York a retro sound similar to the work of The Strokes, it was a treat for fans new and old.

Wearing a black, leather blazer that no one else could get away with Julian introduced the gig with Ludlow Street. Anybody who still wasn't dancing by this point soon began to rock out as upbeat, pinnacle album song 11th Dimension went down a storm. 

Although quiet natured he expressed his thanks to the crowd. What was actually said remains a mystery due to that distinctive, gravely, deep voice. The crowd were very welcoming to an acoustic version of The Strokes smash single You Only Live Once. I was singing along with arms firmly in the air.

Praise must be given to the band also. No band could ever upstage the other members of The Strokes but these guys certainly gave them a run for their money. There were some pretty impressive guitar solos in 4 Chords of the Apocalypse and Out of the Blue. With The Voice and a great band playing great music, Julian delivered an album that although similar to his work with The Strokes, had a fresh and fun twist to it.

Introducing the final surprise song, Julian admitted that he wasn't sure whether to play it or not. It was I Wish it Was Christmas Today. When I first heard it at home I wasn't too sure how seriously to take it, with it being a wee bit cheesy. Nonetheless, it is Christmas and everyone got into the spirit! A quick thank you and Julian was off the stage in the blink of an eye. That's what was so good about this gig. It was Julian and the band performing his awesome album to the crowd. No gimmicks or effects. He absolutely rocked it.

What the students thought:


Ruth, 19

“Everybody went a bit crazy when 11th Dimension came on. It was a really good atmosphere.”


Dave, 24

“I love The Strokes so was quite excited at the thought of Julian playing in Leeds. His solo stuff is just as good.”


Lucy, 20

“I enjoyed it lots. The ticket price was a bit steep but I suppose it was worth it!”

 

Hollie Richardson


BA (Hons) Journalism


Faculty of Business & Law


Leeds Met