CHELSEAJANUS STARKBRICKLAYERS NORWICHWhen we first booked Chelsea to play Norwich, the outlook quickly became uncertain. Just weeks later came news that Gene October had withdrawn from touring following major surgery. The immediate reaction from some quarters was to pull the show altogether. Without Gene, surely it wouldn’t be Chelsea? That was the concern.But belief in the strength of the songs — and the band itself — won out.A few weeks on, a show with 999 helped steady the nerves. Arthur’s encouragement was simple: stick with it. Even so, ticket sales crept along at a nerve-racking pace, only just reaching the break-even point on the night itself. It felt like a gamble right up until doors opened. What followed made all that doubt irrelevant.Janus Stark, added to the bill thanks to the ever-reliable Gizz Butt, delivered a sharp, energetic set that immediately connected with the Norwich crowd. North City Lager System had already warmed things up perfectly, their boozy, anthemic punk proving a hit with the local faithful.By the time Chelsea took to the stage, the room was ready — and the band did not disappoint. Far from diminished, they sounded revitalised: fresh, urgent, and full of fire. It was hit after hit, delivered in quick succession, with the crowd singing along throughout. Nic and Mat shared vocal duties seamlessly, giving the set both variety and momentum.Closing with 'Right to Work', they left the audience wanting more — always the mark of a great performance.For anyone still in doubt: go and see them. Chelsea, in this form, are not to be missed.
SLS LIVE EVENTSRead a new interview with Gene October in the latest edition of Vive Le Rock!
