GIG REVIEW: Nation of Language @ The Bodega, Nottingham, 16/04/22

Skinny ties, Korg synthesisers, Doctor Martens. Early ‘80s new wave was back with a vengeance last night at Nottingham’s The Bodega - with a bit of a twist.

First to take the stage was Wings of Desire, with their at-times-overpowering wall of guitars, drums and half-sung poetic lyrics. ‘Choose A Life’ was the set’s highlight, representing the four-piece’s true propitiousness with a memorable chorus and pithy lyrics.

Headliners Nation of Language, previously described as ‘Brooklyn-based new wave revivalists’ by NME, hit the stage about forty minutes later with a minimalistic setup and a vast, synthesiser-driven sound. Set opener ‘In Manhattan’ (also the opening track on the band’s newest album ‘A Way Forward’) could well be a ‘Trans-Europe Express’-era Kraftwerk track - until lead singer Ian’s boomy tones enter into the picture that is, then their sound is more reminiscent of early New Order or OMD.

The energy rarely dips as the set marches on; tracks like ‘Friend Machine’, ‘Automobile’ and ‘Indignities’, the most overtly new wave of them all, go down the best with the audience, who are jam-packed into the tiny venue and cheering at every possible opportunity.

What is novel about the three-piece is that throughout the night they give each other ample opportunity to take centre stage, resulting in a communal feel that complements the warmth of the luscious bass tones, which are so delightfully typical of early ‘80s new wave bands and those reviving the sound.

I’ll admit, I wasn’t particularly keen on Nation of Language’s music when I heard some of the studio recordings, but last night’s gig has me feeling compelled to give them another listen, and certainly wanting to see them live again soon. And isn’t that the sign of a good gig?