This review was written by Zoe Blakeman.
Stepping into the Chicago Theatre for a Squeeze concert felt like traveling back to the heart of 80s pop. With neon lights flashing across the stage and a chaotic yet perfectly coordinated mix of guitars, bongos, accordion, and synths, the band transforms the room into a vibrant, nostalgic experience. The crowd, a mix of long-time fans and a few younger faces sings along to every chorus, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a gathering of old friends than a concert. From quirky lyrics to upbeat rhythms, Squeeze proves that after all these years, they’re still here to have fun—and to make sure everyone else is, too.
From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear this wasn’t just a show—it was a celebration. Bright neon lights pulsed in sync with the beats, casting a fun and playful glow over the stage. The band launched into their first three songs: “Take Me I’m Yours,” “Hourglass,” and “Up the Junction.” "Up the Junction," a fan-favorite, had the entire audience on their feet, belting out every word. As (probably) the youngest person in the room, I couldn't help but feel like I was witnessing something special—a room full of fans, most of whom had been following Squeeze for decades, united by a shared love for this song. The swirling synths, shimmering lights, and nostalgic vibe of the track made it feel like I was part of a piece of music history.
But it wasn’t all nostalgia—the band kept things fresh and quirky with their offbeat lyrics and unexpected instrumentation. A particular highlight was an upbeat tune inspired by a true story of a couple who fell in love at an old folks' home—a cheerful song about growing old, losing hair, and dying, delivered with a playful edge. Squeeze somehow made mortality sound fun, singing about life’s inevitabilities with a wink and a smile. With such a large band, it felt more like watching a group of old friends having the time of their lives together. The fun was contagious, with smiles, laughter, and a lighthearted atmosphere spreading across the theatre.
A memorable moment came during "Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)," when the stage was bathed in pink and blue lights, and the crowd roared in response to a killer guitar solo that shook the room. It was followed by an equally intense keyboard solo, with the audience going wild, completely wrapped up in the lively energy of the performance. Then there was "Tempted," which kicked off with a bluesy guitar solo before building into a massive crescendo. By the end, the entire band was playing in unison, shaking the walls of the theatre with a sound so full and vibrant it felt impossible not to get swept up in it.
For a band that’s been around for decades, Squeeze remains impressively fresh and innovative. The lead singers dazzled in sparkly suits—one in gold, the other in a glittering black-and-silver ensemble—glinting under the stage lights. Their energy, coupled with the band’s chaotic yet cohesive performance, made it clear that this was more than just another show on their tour. This was a group of musicians still having fun, still creating joy for themselves and their audience.
As the band closed out with "Cool for Cats” and “Black Coffee in Bed,” the theatre once again transformed into a vibrant, rock-infused space, with heavy guitar riffs and deeper, more monotone vocals courtesy of Chris Difford. It was a satisfying close to an evening full of surprises, laughter, and musical brilliance.
Squeeze is a band that has managed to keep the fun alive in their music, and it shows. Their performance was a reminder that music doesn’t always have to be serious—it can be chaotic, quirky, lighthearted, and still deeply moving. With their blend of 80s nostalgia, upbeat rock, and offbeat instrumentation, Squeeze delivered a concert experience that was not only unforgettable but refreshingly fun from start to finish.
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