Echo & The Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch Faces Challenges Onstage, But Will Sergeant Shines

Ian McCulloch, frontman of Echo & The Bunnymen, recently delivered a performance at the O2 Academy in Leeds that was marked by vocal struggles, but highlighted by the enduring talent of guitarist Will Sergeant. The show, while featuring beloved classics, revealed a frontman visibly grappling with the demands of performing the band’s extensive catalog.

A Night of Contrasts

The concert began promisingly with renditions of “Going Up” and “All That Jazz” from the band’s 1980 debut album, Crocodiles. However, McCulloch soon expressed irritation with the bass sound, leading to a tense exchange with a crew member. He requested a stool and remained seated for the majority of the performance, often mumbling between songs.

Vocal Difficulties and Crowd Participation

At 66, McCulloch acknowledged his inability to replicate the vocal range of his younger years. He notably refrained from singing the choruses of “Bring on the Dancing Horses,” allowing the audience to take over. He abruptly ended the set shortly after.

Sergeant’s Standout Performance

While McCulloch faced difficulties, guitarist Will Sergeant delivered a compelling performance. Described as looking like “an inscrutable Russian novelist” with a new grey beard, Sergeant took on the responsibility of honoring the band’s legacy, unleashing “torrents of glorious psychedelic shapes and pop riffs.” His 12-string guitar work during “The Killing Moon” was particularly praised, with the crowd enthusiastically singing along to support McCulloch.

Crocodiles: A Lasting Legacy

Echo & The Bunnymen formed in 1978, initially consisting of Ian McCulloch, Will Sergeant, Les Pattinson, and a drum machine. Their debut album, Crocodiles, released in July 1980, reached number 17 on the UK Albums Chart. The album, and singles like “The Pictures on My Wall” and “Rescue,” blended psychedelia, post-punk, and classic songwriting, establishing the band as a significant force in the decade. Crocodiles was recorded at Eden Studios in London and Rockfield Studios in Wales, and produced by Bill Drummond, David Balfe, and Ian Broudie.

Tour Continues

Echo and the Bunnymen are scheduled to play Albert Hall, Manchester, on March 11th, continuing their tour.