Review: Therapy?
The Academy, Dublin
Andy Cairns of the Northern Irish group 'Therapy?' Photo: Getty Images
Monday May 18 2009
Sadly, Therapy? are yet another Irish band who've been somewhat taken for granted in recent years.
Now in their 20th year, the Northern trio have released a whopping 12 albums -- equalling the back catalogue of U2.
"I always knew Therapy? would make it into the Hall of Fame," quips one local wag, referring to the venue's former use.
As they walk on stage, lead singer Andy Cairns makes an announcement that strikes joy into the hearts of their fans.
"We're going to play lots of songs from all our albums," he announces, before dedicating the opening track 'I Told You I Was Ill' to the late Spike Milligan.
Cairns's ferocious buzz saw guitar playing, Michael McGeegan's badass bass and Neil Cooper's pulverising drums haven't mellowed one iota over the years. A blistering 'Teethgrinder' still sounds as mean and menacing as ever and they even chip its B-side 'Summer of Hate' into the mix.
Thankfully, they don't indulge in noisy nostalgia. The new single, 'Crooked Timber', is a cracker, lifting its title from philosopher Immanuel Kant.
Tracks culled from the album of the same name are equally scorching. The contention that they've released one of their best albums in years is given added weight live.
Fans' favourite 'Potato Junkie' is dusted down for a raucous and profane singalong. It's a timely reminder of the band's heyday.
But this is much, much more than a power chord or two down memory lane, as Therapy? Mk 2009 are sounding as alive and dangerous as ever.
- Eamon Sweeney
