17/03/2011 | Chase And Status – O2 ABC, Glasgow

Following on from a string of DJ sets, Chase and Status returned to the stage amidst a flurry of pyrotechnics and bass drops, proving that electronic based artists can perform just as competently as any guitar based outfit.

The much anticipated No More Idols tour has taken the London duo around the country, taking in venues such as Camden’s Roundhouse and the O2 ABC in Glasgow. The barn-like interior of the ABC (which boast Europe’s biggest disco ball) is a bland setting for a gig – it lacks the charm of the Arches and the atmosphere of the Captain’s Rest, nevertheless, the minute MC Rage bounds onto the stage and exhorts the crowd to jump, mayhem ensues. Two mosh pits quickly develop and the whole venue moves in time to the beats.

Opening with tracks from recently released album No More Idols, Chase and Status showcase their developed drum and bass sound, accompanied by ambient graphics displayed on background screens. Time and Midnight Caller whip the crowd into a state of euphoria – the ABC is a pulsating body of energy, reminiscent of early 90s raves.

The duo know how to please an audience. The majority of their set is taken up with tracks from 2008 album More than A lot, more instrumental and dubstep in tone than their newer work – not that anyone would be aware of the lack of lyrics – MC Rage continually bounces around the stage, informing the crowd they are at one with the music and offering other philosophical insights. However, unlike the Andy Cs of the world, Rage doesn’t grate and makes it known that he isn’t the main attraction – the two silent figures behind mixing decks are the force behind the music.

Unfortunately Plan B doesn’t appear for the live renditions of Pieces and End Credits, but rising star Shani takes centre stage for the remix of Nneka’s Heartbreak and the crowd goes wild when Liam Bailey is introduced as guest lyricist for recent hit Blind Faith.

It is easy to draw comparisons between Chase and Status and The Prodigy – Rage isn’t dissimilar to Keith Flint in his charisma and energy, and the staging is reminiscent of that used for The Prodigy’s Invaders Must Die’tour. Chase and Status have a long way to go before they develop into legends of a similar calibre, but this gig certainly showed they have the potential to be mainstays of the drum and bass world.

www.chaseandstatus.co.uk