Day two of the Southampton Summer Sessions was an explosive evening of true ’70s British punk rock, a night that made much of the older generation feel like they were reliving their angst-ridden teenage years, while also showing younger attendees exactly why these bands are still cited as influences some 40–50 years later.
Opening the show were the Buzzcocks, fronted by Steve Diggle. While he doesn’t have the higher-pitched tone of original singer Pete Shelley, heard across their studio recordings, he still captures that raw, energetic spirit that defines the band’s sound. His delivery stays well within his range while bringing a new edge to the songs. Kicking things off with “What Do I Get?” was a perfect choice to get fans moving and singing along, and the energy never dipped from that point on. “Ever Fallen in Love?” in particular turned the crowd into a choir, screaming every lyric back with unfiltered joy.
Despite turning 70 this year, Diggle proved he hasn’t lost an ounce of passion or energy. He was constantly moving, shredding, and singing his heart out, with a standout moment during “Harmony in My Head” when he called out to the crowd in unity before absolutely ripping on his car, proving once and for all the you absolutely can rip a 3 minute guitar solo in the middle of a punk song.
Next up were The Stranglers, welcomed by a thunderous eruption of cheers as they launched straight into “Toiler on the Sea.” Jean-Jacques Burnel’s bass line led the sonic charge, with Baz Warne on guitar, Jim Macaulay on drums, and Toby Hounsham on keys completing the lineup. What made this set special wasn’t just the music, it was watching aging punks suddenly transform into their younger selves, shouting, dancing, and even slam dancing with more energy than some of the twenty-somethings in the crowd.
After kicking off with a packed setlist of classics, Baz took a moment to connect with the audience, playfully asking, “Do you feel 15 again?” earning a wave of laughter from the crowd.
It’s also worth noting the dedication of the fans. Throughout the set, voices rang out with requests for their favorite songs. While not every request was granted immediately, no one left disappointed. The clearest example of that devotion came when the opening notes of “Golden Brown” hit almost every person in the venue sang along to every word.
Later in the evening, Jean-Jacques Burnel, the last original member, took a moment to address the crowd. “This band is very old,” he joked, before promising to play one of their earliest tracks to celebrate The Stranglers’ 51st anniversary. That led into “Go Buddy Go,” followed by the night’s final burst of energy with the iconic closer, “No More Heroes.”
After an unforgettable night of true British punk rock, it’s easy to see why The Stranglers and The Buzzcocks remain two of the most iconic and enduring bands of their time. Both delivered tight, powerful sets that matched, if not exceeded the energy of bands half their age.