There are some bands that instantly transport you back to a particular time in your life, and for many people, McFly are one of them.
Returning to Cardiff Castle as part of TK Maxx presents Depot Live, the pop rock favourites proved they have lost none of the energy, charm or crowd pleasing ability that has kept them going for 23 years.
After several days of scorching temperatures, there had been some concern that the heat might overshadow the evening. Thankfully, a welcome layer of cloud arrived just in time, creating perfect conditions for an outdoor concert. With easy access through the castle’s North Entrance and bars that were surprisingly quiet throughout the evening, everything was set for a great night.
Even a Red weather warning couldn’t keep fans away.
Before McFly took to the stage, the atmosphere had already been well and truly warmed up. The pre show soundtrack had thousands singing along to classics including Bohemian Rhapsody, Livin’ On A Prayer and YMCA, while special guests Twin Atlantic and opening act Remember Monday kept the momentum building.
When Danny Jones, Tom Fletcher, Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd finally appeared on stage, they wasted no time. Opening with the explosive Where Did All The Guitars Go, they immediately had the Cardiff crowd jumping. It’s one of those songs that sticks with you long after the final note, and it’s easy to see why it has become such a fan favourite.
The band followed with Land of The Bees before treating the audience to a set packed with hits including Radio, Star Girl, Obviously, Happiness and It’s All About You. Every song was greeted with huge cheers from a crowd that knew every lyric.
One of the night’s highlights came when the band revealed they are currently working on their eighth studio album. Fans were given a cheeky teaser of new material, although there is still no release date. Judging by the reaction, there is plenty of excitement for what’s to come.
For long time fans, Room On The 3rd Floor brought another huge wave of nostalgia. Originally released in 2004 as the band’s debut album, hearing it live again was a reminder of just how many memorable songs McFly have produced over the years.
Another standout moment was the brilliantly stitched together medley featuring Livin’ On A Prayer, Pink Pony Club, Beautiful, 500 Miles, Radio Ga Ga and Twist and Shout. It flowed effortlessly from one track to the next and kept the crowd fully engaged throughout. The inclusion of Twist and Shout also brought back memories of its famous appearance in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Happiness became an even bigger celebration when Remember Monday returned to join the band on stage, adding another feel good moment to an already energetic evening.
Across a 90 minute set, McFly never let the pace drop. Their enthusiasm was infectious and the chemistry between the four band members was as strong as ever. The main set closed with Red before a two song encore, finishing with the ever popular Five Colours in Her Hair.
If there was one song that everyone left Cardiff Castle singing, it was that one.
Despite the challenging temperatures, both the performers and the audience gave everything. It was a night full of nostalgia, singalongs and feel good moments, proving exactly why McFly continue to attract loyal fans more than two decades after first bursting onto the scene.
TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle continues on Saturday with the inaugural Blackbird Festival.
