Ultravox
Live at the Palace Theatre, Manchester
30th September 2012
Reviewed by Brian Grehan and
Debbie Tasker
It was with slight indifference that we took our seats in the Palace Theatre on Sunday night. This soon changed as the band came on stage to rapturous applause from the sold out crowd. They launched into the title track of their new album "Brilliant" with great energy and I must say this title was an indicator of the evening as a whole.
With video imagery and creative use of live cameras above the stage the concert became a multimedia event which added to the enjoyment we felt. Although there was little interaction with the audience in between songs it was clear the band were enjoying the experience as much as we were in our seats.
Four years ago some members were not even talking to each other, since then they have patched up their differences done 3 tours and released the new album. Yes they won't make any impact on the charts but they do have their core of diehard fans who will go and see them live, buy the t-shirt and the programme.
The set lasted over 2 hours and 27 songs featuring tracks from the new album like "Change", "Rise" and "Flow". For me the best songs were the aformentioned title track and "Rise". Midge Ure has been quoted as saying Ultravox were a rock band with synthesizers. I agree. The songs that worked for me were the ones that they played as a rock band with Mr Ure displaying his skills as a guitarist.
The new songs were well received but the big hits like "Hymn" "Vienna" and "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes" were when the audience got off their seats to dance in the aisles. A great night from a brilliant band.
Rating: 5/5 
Ultravox UK tour finishes on 8 October 2012 then goes into Europe until 5 November 2012. For more information on tour dates, venues and to book tickets visit Live Nation here.
04 October 2012 – Sheffield City Hall, Sheffield
06 October 2012 – Blackpool Opera House, Blackpool
07 October 2012 – SECC – Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow
08 October 2012 – The Sage Gateshead, Gateshead