Last night in Toronto at the Phoenix, punk legends the Damned played a 'damned' fine show, part of a 40th anniversary tour. The Damned are one of the oldest punk bands; indeed an integral part of punk history.
Original or very long-standing members in the line up include singer Dave Vanian and guitarist Captain Sensible, who are both in their 60's now, but still can rock hard.
During the encore, the band began with a rollickin' version of Elton Motello's 'Jet Boy Jet Girl', with Captain Sensible on lead vocals. Next, the band broke into signature hit 'Noise Noise Noise', only to be cut short when Sensible accidentally fell off the stage.
According to a fan who saw what was happening in the front row, the Captain twisted and crouched low as he hit a chord (he is known to be quite an animated fellow) and then lost his balance, falling and hitting his head on a security guard rail. Apparently he was knocked out cold for a couple of minutes, as some personnel rushed to his aid. They then helped him walk out of the venue, and it is presumed that paramedics came to make sure he was OK, possibly even taking him to hospital, though the latter part is unconfirmed. An otherwise fun great show ended on a somber note.
Update>> The Montreal and Boston tour dates have not been canceled, just postponed. The following message has been posted on the Damned's FB page:
“Ladies and Gentlemen….How do.”
As I’m sure you’re all aware now, last night in Toronto, our fearless Captain took a spill off the front of the stage resulting in a broken rib. In an effort to “ Carry On Captain” we are postponing our Montreal and Boston shows to the following dates:
Montreal: May 23, 2017
Boston: May 24, 2017
All tickets and VIP packages will be honored for these rescheduled dates.
Most importantly though is that our beloved Captain recover and resume his exuberant duties.
Let’s all keep up the good thoughts and positive wishes.
From The Damned Production
If this says the Cap'n broke a rib, does that mean the one fan's account was off, that Sensible only seemed to hit his head, but was immobilized from the broken rib in any event? Or, perhaps he hit his head AND broke a rib. Either way, we hope he gets better fast.
Damned fans, please send well wishes/good vibes/prayers/whatever else, and keep fingers crossed the Captain will be just fine and sprightly soon. Let us hope the band will be able to continue to tour without any further substantial incident...
