Four years after reforming Squeeze, Tilbrook and his longtime writing partner Chris Difford have yet to pen any new material for the band with which they first came to prominence. That’s partially down to the hectic workload they have away from each other, with Tilbrook especially busy on the touring circuit.
Filmed in a modest Manhattan bar two years ago, The Fluffers’ set inevitably nods towards Squeeze greats of yore, with Black Coffee In Bed and Up The Junction among the most anthemic of crowd-pleasers. Tilbrook’s songs from his own albums, however, never veer too far from the more famous band’s template. By The Light Of The Cash Machine is packed with the smalltown imagery and cheeky wit that permeated Cool For Cats and Argy Bargy.
Keyboard player Stephen Large is The Fluffers’ secret weapon, his dextrous flourishes creating a whirlwind of melody on Untouchable (Tilbrook’s most satisfying non-Squeeze song) and a wash of sweet soul on Tempted. Yes, a new Squeeze album would be most welcome, but let’s hope it doesn’t come at the expense or demise of Tilbrook’s other great band.
