Liam Gallagher review – when he does eventually smile, it’s perfect

Koko, London
The reliably aloof ex-Oasis frontman rides the wave of the Britpop revival with an intimate gig that mixes previous favourites and (Oasis-y-sounding) solo anthems – and fuels speculation a few reunion

Liam Gallagher, British rock star, shouldn't be recognized for smiling. Having stared down from levels and out from journal covers for more than 30 years, eyeballing all-comers to step outdoors, it’s as if the younger Gallagher brother remains the brooding focus not just for his erstwhile band Oasis – or his own solo afterlife, now three hit albums robust – however for the whole idea of moody rock stardom itself.

“ROCK’N’ROLL”, declares a shiny silver backdrop – in all capitals, like his tweets. Gallagher’s solo band features a peak of four guitarists and, sometimes, two drummers, three backing vocalists, alongside keys and bass. It’s an outfit more suited to demolishing an area than this compact Camden venue, which naturally bought out in seconds.