A night "loaded" with music
Deacon Blue thrill Dreamland, Margate
On a balmy but cloudy summer evening on Friday, 28th June, Dreamland Margate transformed into a sea of music lovers as the legendary Scottish band Deacon Blue took the open-air stage. The historic amusement park, known for its vintage charm and seaside location, provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable concert experience.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over Dreamland, the anticipation in the air was palpable. Fans of all ages, from dedicated long-time followers to new admirers, gathered to witness Deacon Blue’s much-anticipated performance. The Ferris Wheel started to glow and screeching sounds from the Ghost train treated us to the fairground atmosphere.
“I love that there is such a variety of music here for the summer month of concerts. I’ve seen Bryan Adams, Gnarls Barkley and the Kieser Chiefs who were brilliant. I am looking forward to Paloma Faith soon too.” Said Cathy from Margate.
Before Deacon Blue arrived on stage, the crowd were treated to an outstanding performance by the support act, The Bluetones. The Britpop band, known for their infectious melodies and nostalgic hits, set the tone for the evening with their energetic set. Their classics like “Slight Return” and “Bluetonic” resonated with the audience, whilst other songs, although performed brilliantly, were less well received. A hard crowd perhaps. Mark Morriss, lead singer, is incredibly witty. He even told the crowd that ‘Down by the reservoir’ was “almost a single, but we released something different instead, and you didn’t buy it.” The Bluetones’ lively performance was a great prelude to the main event, leaving the crowd ready to dance and sing the night away.
One of the most notable aspects of the event was the exceptional attention given to accessibility. Dreamland Margate ensured that all fans, regardless of their physical abilities, could enjoy the concert comfortably. A designated viewing area and accessible facilities reflected a thoughtful and inclusive approach that set a standard for future events. Ok, it was at the back of the venue which for someone with eyesight issues does make it a little frustrating but as Dreamland is a standing-only venue, which is heavily promoted in all correspondence, it is easy to understand.
As Deacon Blue took the stage, the audience erupted in applause and cheers. The band’s signature blend of rock and pop, infused with soulful melodies, resonated through the open air. Ricky Ross, the charismatic lead singer, engaged the crowd with his dynamic presence, while Lorraine McIntosh’s powerful vocals added depth and emotion to each song. The setlist was a perfect mix of classic hits like Dignity, Loaded and Real Gone Kid alongside newer tracks, creating a seamless journey through their musical repertoire.
“Being at an open-air concert, listening to a band you have admired since your youth is such a thrill. Being here and absorbing the music deep into your soul felt like an emotional epiphany. I feel alive.” Said Belinda, 54, from Canterbury.
At times, the audience sang along loudly and rather out of tune but everyone singing back to the group must have felt phenomenal for them. A clever mash-up of songs allowed a different take to spice up their music. An updated version of Chocolate Girl was, perhaps, too different for an audience to take on board. However, the latest music went down a treat and was worthy of adding to the setlist.
Karen Raines told us on Facebook “It’s the 14th time we have seen you, Lorraine is always an absolute legend on stage and her energy never slows. Ricky, Lorraine and the rest of the band’s commitment to your songs, old and new is superb, your delivery live is always incredible and the atmosphere is always fantastic!”
Amidst the music, a quirky and quintessentially coastal element added an extra layer of charm to the evening — the seagulls. These feathered attendees swooped and soared above the crowd, occasionally adding their squawks to the symphony of sounds. Perhaps a brazen dive for a discarded chip or the accurate timing to catch someone with an unwanted deposit. While some might consider them a nuisance, the seagulls contributed to the unique atmosphere of a concert by the sea, reminding everyone of the distinct locality of Dreamland.
The concert experience was complemented by a variety of food options available on-site. Although on the pricier side, the culinary offerings did not disappoint. From gourmet burgers to tacos, the vendors ensured that there was something to satisfy every palate. The food, while indulgent, added to the overall enjoyment of the evening, allowing concertgoers to savour delicious bites as they revelled in the music. The Burger outlet managed to get mentions from The Bluetones and Ricky from Deacon Blue.
As the people danced, sang, ate, drank and had a great evening it was clear that just because you are over 50, does not mean you have to stop partying. We may have all got a little older but music is key to our memories although I suspect there will be one or two achy bones in the morning, after dancing so hard.
As the night drew to a close, the energy remained electric. Deacon Blue’s encore was met with roaring applause, and the band graciously acknowledged the enthusiastic audience. The final notes lingered in the air as fans slowly made their way out of Dreamland, hearts full and spirits lifted.
The Deacon Blue concert at Dreamland Margate was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of music, community, and the magic of live events. The thoughtful accessibility measures, and the coastal charm with its seagull serenades all contributed to an evening that will be cherished by the audience for years to come.
As the band continues their tour, those who were fortunate enough to be at Dreamland will undoubtedly carry the memory of this enchanting night with them, a testament to the timeless appeal of Deacon Blue and the enduring allure of live music by the sea.