Killing Joke - 4th November 2018 - Northumbria Institute - Review and photos


It's been about 13 years since I last saw Killing Joke at the much smaller Newcastle University basement in 2005. At that time the band were enjoying a revival but still playing relatively intimate venues. I remember it being amazing yet they claimed it was the worst show of the tour, to this day I'm not sure why. Anyway, remarkably they have continued that revival with a slow and steady upward trajectory, whilst complementing their back catalogue with a string very strong records.


It's now 2018 and they are celebrating their 40th anniversary, this time they play to a very busy and much bigger Northumbria Institute. Lots of things have changed since I last saw them, I can't quite believe it's been so long. The lineup is a special one, consisting of all the original members of the band as it was back in 1978. They've been back working together for some time now, that magic is still there and it is such a treat to finally witness in a live setting. Jaz made a really nice tribute to their fallen brother Raven, who was such a dominating force as part of their live sound and stage presence.

Martin Glover has returned to cover bass duties and appeared to be having the time of his life playing the songs again.


The guitar tone of Geordie Walker is a thing of beauty and never fails to raise the hairs on the back of my neck.


It was amazing to see Paul Fergusson behind the kit. His playing was a key part of that KJ sound that helped propel them to the limelight.


I had a peek at the setlist before they came on stage. It's a strong setlist covering their entire back catalogue. Further research shows that they've been locked into this set for the entire tour. The Wait is an absolute highlight of the night for me and seems to get the best reaction from the crowd, many dancing away in sheer delight! The setlist ensures that, no matter what period of KJ is your preference, that all will walk away having heard their favourite song.


40 years later Killing Joke are still as relevant and as vital as ever (maybe even more so with the current hate-filled media and political climate). They are quite simply one of the greatest bands of all time and it's been a privilege to photo them. 40 years is quite an achievement, an astounding achievement for an astounding band. Their music remains timeless, as seen in the faces of the crowd tonight, with all ages in attendance.

PHOTO GALLERY