The Damned live @ The Royale, Boston MA [10-16-26]

It’s funny to think that, at one point, you were either a Damned or a Clash “guy.” According to Captain Sensible they hated each other. I guess the punk scene in the UK was pretty competitive back in the day. Whatever the case may be, the Damned can rightfully claim to have had the first punk rock release in the UK with Neat Neat Neat and New Rose. My good friend, who I was in a band with and knew/knows way more about punk rock than me, once told me that if he wasn’t such a Clash guy, he might have been a Damned guy. Why not both? I didn’t quite get it, but now, as an adult, I think it’s making more sense. Unlike the Clash, the Damned figured out a way to set aside their differences, keep going, and make music that pushed their boundaries. If the Clash didn’t implode, they might have made music very similar to the Damned now. Of course I don’t have any proof for it, but it’s also kind of hard to argue.

But the Damned kept going and have aged like fine wine. Their latest album Darkadelic was an excellent release and underrated, in my opinion: something that could be enjoyed by all. It seems like they’re teasing a retirement and this tour is supposed to be their send-off. Maybe their last ever tour of the US? It’s called the Final Damnation tour, after all, and it’s got the best lineup you could want: the Strawberries lineup.

The Damned are old men at this point, but they still put on a fantastic show. Dave Vanian is 70 year sold? His voice still possesses all the richness it did in the 70s. Captain Sensible’s guitar work is tight and bright. The rhythm section is perfectly in sync and holding it down. The Damned are simply an excellent live band.

It truly was a victory lap as the band went through most of their catalog. Of course, they played Neat Neat Neat and New Rose, but Feel the Pain? Yes, please! Another highlight was that security was surprisingly lax this night and I was allowed to sit in FRONT of the barricade to enjoy the show. The best seat in the house to watch one of my favorite bands? What a treat.

It would be a shame if this truly was their last tour, but a little birdy told me they might actually rethink this and work on a new album. I’d like to live in a world where this is a reality. It’s my Halloween wish.

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