Stereo MCs - 22.11.2024 @ The Ritz, Manchester

Credit for this page goes to: John Gilman

Back in 1992, my taste in music was starting to evolve. The days of exclusively listening to heavy metal were numbered, and when I heard Step It Up for the first time, something clicked. I took a chance on the Connected album, and it quickly became a staple of my late-night listening sessions. That record stayed on repeat for what felt like forever, each track etching itself into my memory. Unfortunately, my gig-going habits in the early ‘90s were practically non-existent, so I missed the chance to see Stereo MC’s live at their peak. Fast forward over three decades to 2024, and the Connected tour was something I absolutely could not miss. With better transport links to Manchester and a renewed love for that timeless album, I was determined to make up for lost time.

From the very first notes of Pressure, the atmosphere was electric. The crowd instantly came alive, dancing like it was 1992 all over again. The Ritz’s legendary bouncy dancefloor proved to be the perfect setting, amplifying the energy in the room as fans lost themselves in the music. The setlist was a dream for long-time fans, focusing heavily on the Connected album but peppered with classics from their earlier work. Unlike many “album” tours, Stereo MC’s didn’t stick to playing the album in its entirety or in track order—a decision that added an element of surprise and kept us on our toes.

Rob Birch, now in his early sixties, showed no signs of slowing down. His energy was infectious as he bounded around the stage with the enthusiasm of someone half his age. Meanwhile, Cath Coffey was a powerhouse, commanding attention in her camouflage pants, jacket, and a “There Is No Planet B” shirt, spinning and twirling as if the music itself flowed through her. Her vocal performance was stunning, effortlessly hitting every high note while radiating pure joy. Together, the band made it clear that their goal was simple: to ensure everyone in the room had the time of their lives.

The message was clear—life is short, so dance, let go, and live in the moment. Songs like Everythingfelt as funky and relevant as ever, and when they played Connected surprisingly early in the set, it lit up the room. The crowd moved as one, and the energy never faltered. Tracks like Step It Up, On 33, Ground Level, and Running came and went in a whirlwind of beats and grooves, with Rob’s vocals as sharp and cool as ever.

The encore was the cherry on top of an already unforgettable night. Starting with Sketch and moving into Lost in Music and Adam Port’s Place, the band had the audience completely captivated. But they weren’t done yet. Returning to the stage for one final song, they closed with Creation, complete with a funky drum intro and Cath Coffey’s soaring vocals. It was the perfect end to a gig that left my 1992 self speechless and my 2024 self overjoyed.

Stereo MC’s reminded everyone why they’re still a force to be reckoned with. They didn’t just play a gig; they connected with their audience on every level, creating an unforgettable experience that was as much about celebration as it was nostalgia.

Set Lisr;

Pressure
Graffiti pt. 1
Use it
Fade away
Everything
Black gold
Connected
On 33
Changes (Stereo mc’s & Adam port)
Elevate my mind
Step it up
Ground level
Running
Sketch
Lost in music
Place (Stereo MC’s & Adam port)
Creation