Keane is more than another Britpop band. Although really a two-piece and a singer, the trio and their obsession with music date back to their school days in the late 1980’s in the small town of Battle in the south of England. The chemistry generated between the members over the years has evolved a curious intensity, impressive given the lack of a guitarist.
After exploding onto the scene in 2004 with their debut album “Hopes and Fears,” the band is back once again on the road and recently hit Chicago as part of their brief US tour to promote their second album, “Under the Iron Sea.” Keane commenced the show with a couple of their new songs, but quickly shifted gears to their big hits like “Bend and Break,” “We Might As Well Be Strangers” and “Everybody’s Changing.” The crowd of mostly twenty-something fans, devotedly sang along to every word.
Certain familiarities can be heard in Keane’s sound. For example, the riff to “Is it any wonder?” sounds similar to U2’s guitar riff from “Zoo Station”. But, despite similarities to Coldplay and even Death Cab’s dramatic piano and overly emotive lyrics, Keane manages to deliver a sweat drenched rock and roll performance in the excess of a two hour show. Vocalist Chaplin was well soaked early into the show and drummer Richard Hughes demonstrated an extraordinary ability to rock and head bang while never missing a beat.
Chaplin often interacted with the crowd, taking time to carefully introduce each song, exuding empathy as if he were attempting to provide help toward solving each fan’s love and life issues. Although the setting at times felt like a large group therapy session, the band was so seriously committed to delivering a good show that it was impossible to dwell in life’s downers. In fact, the overall atmosphere remained uplifting leaving Keane’s fans wanting more.
It’s good to know that if you missed this past show you won’t have to wait too long. Keane is returning to Chicago in September because whether you want to experience an energetic rock performance or simply need a group hug, you won’t be disappointed with theses three lads from Battle.
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