LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: Duran Duran in Manchester, NH (11.02.24)
If you’re a fan of music, it’s nearly impossible you haven’t heard a song from Duran Duran. From their electrifying 80s anthems like “Rio” and “Hungry Like a Wolf” to the emotionally-charged “Come Undone,” they’ve shaped modern pop in ways that few bands ever will. As one of the most iconic groups to come out of the New Romantic movement, Duran Duran’s blend of catchy melodies, synth-driven hooks, and infectious energy has not only defined an era but continues to resonate with audiences today.
So, when the opportunity arose to photograph them live, I knew I couldn’t pass it up. Duran Duran is more than just a nostalgia trip – it’s a masterclass in musicianship, showmanship, and staying relevant in a constantly shifting musical landscape.
**The Experience: A Snap of History**
The night began with the typical photographer’s hustle. Alongside another photographer, we greeted each other, exchanged nods, and quickly snapped a shot of the setlist printout on the floor. We were eager to know the opening three songs – the golden trio that we’d get to capture up close. As we scanned the setlist, we were surprised to see that they’d kick off with one of their newer tracks. It was a refreshing reminder that Duran Duran is not a band stuck in the past; they continue to create.
Then, the moment arrived. Backlit and silhouetted, all four band members appeared, stepping into the lights as the crowd erupted. Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, and Roger Taylor were here, and they wasted no time diving into “Nightboat,” a deep cut from their 1982 album Rio. The energy in the venue was immediately electric, and from that point on, it was clear: Duran Duran had come to play.
They followed up with “Wild Boys,” another classic, and that’s when the unexpected happened. During the song, Simon Le Bon stumbled and fell on stage. For a split second, there was a collective gasp from the crowd. But in true rockstar fashion, Simon bounced back up faster than anyone could blink and carried on as if nothing had happened. With a cheeky smile and a laugh, he quipped, “Well, that’s different,” and the show continued without a hitch. It was a reminder of why Duran Duran has lasted – not only is their talent undeniable, but their resilience and sense of humor keep the show moving forward, no matter what.
**Up Close and Personal with the Hits**
As a photographer, the experience of being just feet away from Simon during “Hungry Like the Wolf” was nothing short of surreal. Having grown up listening to that song – and countless others – on repeat, being there, in the front row, witnessing it live, was an out-of-body experience. The crowd was ecstatic, but there was a surreal quietness around me, as I took in the moment. The fact that I was capturing it, immortalizing that energy through my lens, felt like something beyond just a concert.
Once our photography window closed, I quickly found my seat, right off the stage and directly in front of the band. The view was perfect, and as the show continued, Duran Duran did not disappoint. “A View to a Kill” – their unforgettable James Bond theme – had the crowd in a frenzy, and the energy didn’t slow down. They moved seamlessly into newer material like “Black Moonlight,” which showed that while the band has deep roots in their past, they still know how to evolve.
But then, the moment I’d been waiting for arrived: “Come Undone.” This song has always been one of my personal favorites, a perfect blend of emotional depth and musical sophistication. To hear it live, right in front of me, was a musical highlight I hadn’t anticipated. It was one of those rare moments when a song takes on a new life in a live setting, more intense and intimate than any recording could capture.
**The Crowd: A Mix of Old and New Faces**
The audience was primarily made up of people who likely grew up with Duran Duran in the 80s and 90s – leather jackets, high energy, and looks of pure joy on their faces. They danced, they sang, and they reveled in the nostalgia of it all. It was clear that for many, this was a night decades in the making.
Interestingly, there was also a younger couple nearby who didn’t seem as fully immersed in the experience. Maybe it was their first time seeing Duran Duran live, or maybe they were just unfamiliar with some of the older tracks. But they stood out as the exception, as the majority of the crowd was completely enraptured by the performance.
**A Message of Peace and Solidarity**
At one point during the show, Simon Le Bon paused and dedicated the next song to those suffering around the world, specifically hostages in conflict zones and the people of Gaza and Ukraine. The message of peace was powerful, and as the band launched into *”Ordinary World”*, it felt like the perfect moment of reflection and unity. The song, which has always had a hauntingly poignant quality, took on an even deeper resonance in light of Simon’s words.
**The Grand Finale: A Show for the Ages**
As the show neared its end, the crowd was clearly waiting for “Rio,” and when it finally came, the venue erupted. The lights flashed, the crowd sang along, and it was clear that Duran Duran had given the audience everything they could have hoped for and more. And then, as quickly as it had started, the night ended.
Even after all these years, Duran Duran’s energy on stage is unmatched. The band moved and performed with more vigor than acts half their age, reminding everyone that age is just a number when it comes to passion and performance.
**Final Thoughts: A Timeless Band**
Duran Duran’s performance was a reminder of their staying power. They are not just a legacy act, but a band that continues to evolve while honoring their roots. The blend of old and new, the energy, the musicianship – all of it made for a show that was both a celebration of their incredible history and a testament to their continued relevance in today’s music scene.
It was a night filled with timeless songs, unforgettable moments, and a deep connection between the band and their fans. For anyone who has ever loved Duran Duran, this concert was a gift – and for those who may not yet know their magic, it was an introduction to a true musical phenomenon.
**Rating: 5/5 stars**
Duran Duran proves that after all these years, they are still at the top of their game – more vibrant, energetic, and relevant than ever before.
Photos – Duran Duran at SNHU Arena in Manchester, NH on November 2nd:
