10cc: 50 Years On, Still Packing a Punch

The iconic 1970s band 10cc, known for its innovative pop blending glam rock, art rock, and doo-wop with surreal lyrics, is currently on tour celebrating its enduring hits. The band, which fractured 50 years ago with the departure of Kevin Godley and Lol Creme in 1976, now features only original bassist and singer Graham Gouldman, 79, from the initial quartet.

Accompanied by 70s-era live guitarist Rick Fenn and energetic young drummer Ben Stone, the current incarnation delivers a compelling tribute. Singer Iain Hornal effectively captures co-founder Eric Stewart's falsetto and the band's signature humor, remarking on how songs like "Old Wild Men" were written when touring in one's 60s and 70s seemed unimaginable.

The tour, self-mockingly titled "And Another Bloody Greatest Hits Tour," reminds audiences of the band's numerous chart-toppers. These include "Art for Art's Sake," "Good Morning Judge," and "The Wall Street Shuffle." Surprises feature "Donna," their first smash hit from 1972, performed in a barbershop-quartet style. Gouldman also revisits his pre-10cc work, performing "Bus Stop," which he penned for The Hollies.

Although Godley appears via video singing "Somewhere in Hollywood," the concert culminates in fan favorites. These include the cod-reggae chart-topper "Dreadlock Holiday" from 1977, the sublime "I'm Mandy Fly Me," and "Rubber Bullets," which incites dancing. A particular highlight for many attendees is the perfect rendition of 1975's "I'm Not in Love," a pioneering multitracked vocal achievement.