It is exciting when a support band outshines the main attraction. A sign of a new generation of music having been born.

And that is exactly what happened when a collective with a new and refreshing sound, and the idea to build an album around an imagined crime thriller, warmed up for 1990s indie staple Stereolab.

While many older fans flocked to the Concorde to see the experimental lounge popsters take to the stage, it was The Week That Was that truly impressed with a complete run-through of their self-titled folk/pop concept album.

With intricate drum parts and blinding guitar riffs in place of the album’s orchestral hooks, the core of the group – four lads from Sunderland – proved they run a very tight ship.

Although decidedly more compelling with Peter Brewis, formerly of Field Music, up front, the second half of the set, which saw him retire behind a keyboard, continued to captivate and ended on a thrilling high with stomper Scratch The Surface. In comparison, Stereolab, while satisfying fans with their indie sound and sultry French vocals, appeared to be a band beyond their live best.

This was not a bad set. Vocals and instrumentation were faultless. But when placed beside a group that has produced arguably one of the best and most original indie albums this year, the passion and excitement seemed lacking.