richardfrosty – Richard Frost – Manchester

Original publication date: October 2008
Outlet: Salford Online
Photography: © Richard Frost

The Ting Tings Hit The Homeland

So much has happened to The Ting Tings in the last 12 months, you could be forgiven for thinking their local roots are just a distant memory.

Following a UK #1 single, a UK #1 debut album and a critically acclaimed Glastonbury set, the indie-pop duo have become the toast of the British music industry. Hard to believe then that the band only formed in 2006, setting local tongues wagging with some incendiary performances at Islington Mill.

But fast-forward to October 2008 and it’s a relief to find the north-west is still close to their hearts during the second of two sold-out gigs at Manchester Academy.

Any lingering doubts are silenced halfway through ‘Shut Up And Let Me Go’ when the music cuts out and drummer Jules De Martino demands: “What city we in?” When the fans shout back again and again, he replies: “The greatest city for music. And the best crowd we’ve had on tour without a doubt.”

It’s a rare moment in the spotlight for De Martino though, as locally born singer Katie White takes centre stage for most of the night. There can be no question that The Ting Tings’ frontwoman is an icon in the making. Rarely if ever have so many teenage girls descended on Manchester Academy for a gig, and White’s note-perfect performance is rapturously received.

If there is a criticism tonight, it’s undoubtedly the shortness of the set. With only ten songs in their back catalogue, lasting a mere 38 minutes on CD, this was always likely to be the case.

Still, an hour with The Ting Tings isn’t enough, and the crowd is left pining for slightly more playfulness and adventure from two songwriters celebrated for their daring mix of indie, dance and pop. Where are the specially written guitar riffs? The multi-layered drum beats? The self-indulgent solos?

Ultimately, perhaps all that is missing is some new material. And bearing in mind the meteoric rise of the last 12 months, it’s surely just a matter of time before the Salfordians return with enough songs to appease even the most ardent fans.

Setlist:
We Walk
Great DJ
Fruit Machine
Keep Your Head
Traffic Light
Be The One
We Started Nothing
Shut Up And Let Me Go

Encore:
Impacilla Carpisung
That’s Not My Name