On June 28, 2024, Newcastle Racecourse became a ska wonderland as Madness headlined the inaugural Newcastle Summer Sessions, delivering a night of infectious energy and nostalgic revelry. The Camden icons, beloved for their quirky British charm, turned the open-air venue into a sea of fezzes and dancing fans, proving their enduring appeal under the Tyneside sky.

Opening with the rousing “One Step Beyond,” Madness set the tone with a setlist blending classics like “Embarrassment,” “Baggy Trousers,” and “Our House” with cuts from their 2023 album C’est La Vie. The newer tracks held their own, but it was the timeless anthems that sparked mass singalongs, with “House of Fun” and “It Must Be Love” hitting emotional highs. A surprising cover of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” fronted by guitarist Chris Foreman, added a cheeky twist, while “Night Boat to Cairo” closed the night in euphoric style. Suggs’ witty banter and Lee Thompson’s lively sax kept the crowd buzzing.

Support acts Reverend and the Makers and The Zutons warmed up the evening, with the latter’s “Valerie” igniting early cheers. The racecourse’s spacious setting, paired with clear sound, created a vibrant festival vibe, though some fans noted lengthy entry queues. The six original members’ chemistry—bolstered by Mike Barson’s keyboard finesse—shone brightly, cementing their status as ska-pop legends.

Despite minor gripes about bar prices, Newcastle’s crowd embraced every moment, from ska skanks to heartfelt singalongs. Madness delivered a masterclass in fun, leaving fans of all ages grinning and dancing, a testament to their nutty, joyful legacy.