Nick Masons Saucerful Of Secrets - SEC Armadillo 21/06/2024

A deep dive into Pink Floyds pre-Dark Side of the Moon era

Nick Mason, the co-founder of the legendary 1960s band Pink Floyd, brought his Saucerful of Secrets project to The SEC Armadillo on Friday, and it was a masterclass in psychedelic exploration.


Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets, photo by Stewart Fullerton

The 2 set show was a deep dive into Pink Floyds pre-Dark Side of the Moon era, the lesser explored material of Pink Floyds discography, a welcome change for fans who might crave a break from the bands smash hits. Songs like "See Emily Play", "Echos", "Lucifier Sam", One Of These Days" and "The Nile Song" soared with a newfound energy, thanks to the stellar contributions of guitarists Gary Kemp and Lee Harris. Kemp, particularly, shone with his performance on the night, capturing the essence of Pink Floyds signature sound without mere imitation.

The gig featured obscure Pink Floyd material, Mason paying tributes to old friends as well as the odd banter from the band, with Mason telling the audience that "It is ok to take pictures or video with your phone, just do not use the flash because it annoys our bassist", he then jokingly said that his bandmates are the most awkward group he has worked with.


Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets, photo by Stewart Fullerton

Mason himself, though not the focal point of the stage presence, was a marvel to watch. Even at the age of 80, his drumming remains powerful and precise, driving the complex rhythms of these early Floyd tracks. There was a palpable sense of joy radiating from him, clearly enjoying revisiting this formative period of the bands career.

The visuals were another highlight, a tasteful light show, with swirling colors and abstract patterns, perfectly complemented the musics psychedelic spirit, not to mention pictures of their late great ex-bandmate Syd Barret, who they paid tribute to during the performance of "Remember Me".


Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets, photo by Stewart Fullerton

This wasnt a nostalgia act simply reliving past glories. Saucerful of Secrets breathes new life into these classic tracks, showcasing their enduring brilliance. The crowd, a mix of long time Pink Floyd fans and younger generations discovering the bands roots, responded with thunderous applause throughout the 2 set performance.

If youre a fan of Pink Floyds early, space-rock infused sound, Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets is a must-see. Its a chance to witness a legendary drummer revisit the foundation of his musical legacy, surrounded by a group of talented musicians who capture the spirit of the era. Be prepared for a sonic journey thats both familiar and refreshingly new.


Nick Masons Saucerful of Secrets, photo by Stewart Fullerton

The band continue their tour in Cardiff tonight, before going to Ipswich and finishing off their UK tour in London.

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