If you’ve been following this blog you know how much of an Oasis fan I am. Yep, I’m one of those folks that are still hanging on to the hope that one day the Gallagher brothers will make peace and reunite. Sadly, until that fateful day comes, I find solace in discovering previously unreleased Oasis gems so that I can relive those memorable years.
The latest is a movie directed by Jake Scott, Oasis Knebworth 1996, which celebrates the story of what could arguably be their biggest show to date. But what makes this story special is that it is told through the eyes of the fans who were there. It is built around never before seen archives from the concert grounds as well as backstage footage from the event. With first-hand testimonials, the footage provides an intimate look at what it was really like to be there. A time before cellphones and iPads, when people attended concerts not simply to say they were there, but to experience the genuine connection between artist and fans.
Oasis’ two record-breaking nights at Knebworth took place on the 10th and 11th of August 1996, with over a quarter of a million fans from all over the world converging on Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire. It features a setlist packed with classics including “Acquiesce”, “Champagne Supernova”, “Don’t Look Back In Anger,” “Live Forever”, “I Am The Walrus”, and the chart-topping “Wonderwall.”
Highlights for me included the guest appearance by the legendary Jon squire of the Stone Roses for “Champagne Supernova,” but most importantly the main narration by Noel Gallagher with a cameo by his brother Liam towards the end of the film. It really made this piece stand out as it provides an inside look into the minds of the artists responsible for putting together two historical performances.
Serendipitously I read somewhere today that Liam is set to attempt to recreate the magic of 1996 a month from now in Knebworth. Will it be the same? I have my reservations. There’s something about those two brothers standing together on that stage that’ll be hard to replicate. But maybe, just maybe, it’ll act as the catalyst to get this legendary band back together again. One can only hope.
