Elbow’s musical craft is outstanding

As Marquee acts go, Elbow aren’t in the same vein as entertainment icons Dolly, Tom or even our own Imelda.

There were no blonde wigs or tribute quiffs here, although, given Elbow’s Northern England pedigree, a few flat caps mightn’t have gone astray. What they all have in common, however, is that they are superb musicians. Elbow are about craftsmanship rather than showmanship, their songs speaking for themselves.

Having released three critically acclaimed albums, Elbow were catapulted to ‘overnight’ success with the million-selling The Seldom Seen Kid, which snagged them the Mercury Prize in 2008. While they do a great line in finely-orchestrated anthemic melodies with a melancholic undertow, they also have plenty of punchier numbers to get the audience swinging rather than swaying. Add in some lush orchestral arrangements and you’re in musical heaven.