The Crash Test Dummies delivered a spellbinding performance at Islington Assembly Hall, celebrating the 30th anniversary of their landmark album “God Shuffled His Feet.” Brad Roberts’ distinctive baritone remains remarkably unchanged after three decades, commanding the intimate venue with the same resonant power that defined their ’90s heyday.
The band’s setlist masterfully balanced tracks from the celebrated album with gems from their broader catalog. Opening with “The Ghosts That Haunt Me,” they quickly established the evening’s playful yet musically sophisticated tone. Ellen Reid’s dynamic presence on accordion and vocals provided the perfect counterpoint to Roberts’ deep vocals, her enthusiasm infectious as she bounded across the stage.
Standout moments included a haunting rendition of “Swimming in Your Ocean” and an unexpected cover of XTC’s “The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead.” The band’s performance of “God Shuffled His Feet” captured the philosophical whimsy that made the original album so compelling, while “Afternoons & Coffeespoons” sparked a passionate singalong from the crowd.
The encore proved particularly memorable, opening with “Heart of Stone” from their underappreciated album “Oooh La La” – arguably the night’s highlight. Their unconventional take on “Jingle Bells” showcased the band’s quirky creativity, transforming the holiday standard into an unexpectedly aggressive romp that perfectly suited their distinctive style.
Naturally, they closed with their international hit “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm,” but it was the journey through their lesser-known tracks that truly demonstrated the band’s enduring musical craftsmanship. Throughout the show, Roberts and his bandmates appeared genuinely delighted to be performing, their joy palpable in every song.
This anniversary celebration proved that the Crash Test Dummies’ unique blend of intellectual lyrics, folk-rock sensibilities, and Roberts’ unmistakable voice remains as captivating as ever. The intimate setting of Islington Assembly Hall provided the perfect backdrop for a band whose music still resonates powerfully three decades on.
