Live Review: The Commoners with Support from Madison Galloway at The Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes, England

Review and Photos By Gary Osbourne

Madison Galloway took the stage at The Craufurd Arms with an impressive and heartfelt performance that set the perfect tone for the evening. Her set was a blend of folk, rock, and blues, showcasing her versatile musicianship and captivating stage presence.

Madison’s rich, soulful voice immediately drew in the audience, and her ability to switch between acoustic guitar, Her original songs, filled with personal and evocative lyrics, resonated deeply with the crowd, while her charismatic storytelling between songs created a warm and intimate atmosphere. Madison Galloway’s performance was a compelling showcase of her talent, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and marking her as a rising star to watch in the music scene.

The Commoners brought a high-energy performance to The Craufurd Arms in Milton Keynes, delivering a night filled with soulful rock, bluesy undertones, and a hint of nostalgic covers.

Shake You Off opened the night with a burst of energy, setting the tone for what would be a captivating evening. The crowd was immediately drawn in by the band’s tight instrumentation and charismatic stage presence. Who Are You? followed, a track that showcased the band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with powerful musical arrangements. The live rendition highlighted the raw emotion in the vocals, backed by a driving rhythm section.

Devil Teasin’ Me and Body And Soul continued the momentum, with the former providing a darker, more mysterious vibe and the latter bringing a soulful touch that had the audience swaying along. The lead guitarist’s solos in these tracks were particularly impressive, demonstrating technical skill and emotional depth. Too Soon to Know You slowed things down slightly, offering a more reflective moment in the set. The lyrics resonated deeply, and the band’s harmonious backing vocals added a rich layer to the performance.

Restless and See You Again picked the pace back up, with catchy choruses and engaging melodies that had the crowd singing along. The energy in the room was palpable, and it was clear that The Commoners had a strong connection with their audience. Deadlines and The Way I Am showcased the band’s versatility, with intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts that kept the set fresh and exciting. The performances were tight, with each band member contributing to a cohesive sound.

Gone Without Warning delivered a poignant moment in the set, its emotional weight carried by heartfelt lyrics and a powerful vocal delivery. This song was a standout, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The Beatles cover Yer Blues was a pleasant surprise, injecting a classic rock vibe into the evening. The Commoners did justice to the iconic track, adding their unique twist while respecting the original’s essence. Fill My Cup and Find A Better Way wrapped up the main set with a bang, combining energetic performances with memorable hooks. The band’s chemistry was evident, and the crowd’s enthusiastic response reflected their appreciation.

For the encore, the band chose Feelin’ Alright by Dave Mason, a fitting choice that encapsulated the night’s positive and uplifting atmosphere. The Commoners’ rendition was vibrant and spirited, leaving the audience on a high note. Overall, The Commoners’ performance at The Craufurd Arms was a testament to their talent and passion for live music. They delivered a well-rounded set that showcased their musical range, leaving the crowd eager for more. The night’s blend of original tracks and carefully selected covers made for an unforgettable experience.

Setlist:

1. Shake You Off
2. Who Are You?
3. Devil Teasin’ Me
4. Body And Soul
5. Too Soon to Know You
6. Restless
7. See You Again
8. Deadlines
9. The Way I Am
10. Gone Without Warning
11. Yer Blues (The Beatles cover)
12. Fill My Cup
13. Find A Better Way

Encore:

14. Feelin’ Alright (Dave Mason cover)