Mott The Hoople (September 30, 1972) – “Mott The Hoople” Concert Review - Unknown Publication

Sep 30, 1972

2 min read

This live review covers Mott The Hoople's appearance at Liverpool Stadium, examining the band's performance during the period following the success of "All The Young Dudes". The reviewer focuses on audience reaction, Ian Hunter's stage presence and the increasing influence of David Bowie on the group's image and presentation.

Publication: Unknown Publication

Date: September 30, 1972

Country: United Kingdom

THE STORY

The review opens with a quote from Ian Hunter: "Where Bowie leads we follow," setting the tone for a concert that reflected the band's close association with David Bowie during 1972. Performing at Liverpool Stadium, Mott The Hoople faced what the reviewer regarded as a traditionally difficult audience, one that preferred to watch carefully before offering approval.

Despite those concerns, the band worked hard to establish themselves and gradually won over the crowd. The reviewer notes that Mott The Hoople were eager to reinforce the image and confidence gained through the success of "All The Young Dudes" and their growing connection with Bowie's glam rock direction.

The set reportedly opened strongly with "Sucker", followed by "Ready For Love", "Hymn For The Dudes" and "One Of The Boys". Ian Hunter's theatrical performance style and increasing stage confidence are highlighted throughout the review. Particular attention is given to "Ballad Of Mott The Hoople", which the writer felt demonstrated the Bowie's influence most clearly.

Later in the concert, "Sweet Jane" is singled out for praise, while "Midnight Lady" receives positive mention for the contributions of drummer Buffin and keyboard player Verden Allen. The reviewer concludes that these harder-rocking moments revealed the strongest side of Mott The Hoople and provided proof of the band's musical substance beyond their new image.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Published during the breakthrough period created by "All The Young Dudes", the review captures Mott The Hoople as they adjusted to a new level of popularity and visibility. The article reflects how frequently critics linked the band's success with the influence of David Bowie while also acknowledging the group's own strengths as performers.

The review is particularly notable for documenting audience reaction and the band's efforts to establish credibility beyond the glam rock label. By praising songs such as "Sweet Jane" and "Midnight Lady", the writer suggests that Mott The Hoople's strength remained rooted in their rock-and-roll foundations.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Mott The Hoople concert at Liverpool Stadium

Era: 1972 All The Young Dudes era

Tone: Positive and performance-focused

Photography: No photography visible in the supplied clipping

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Review of Mott The Hoople performing at Liverpool Stadium

• References to David Bowie's influence on the band

• Praise for performances of "Sweet Jane" and "Midnight Lady"

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