Haircut One Hundred/Stone Foundation
Lighthouse, Poole
Among the surge of original bands that emerged in the 1980s, one act that truly stood apart was Haircut One Hundred. With their distinctive blend of jangly funk guitars, crisp percussive rhythms, a polished brass section, and breezy, upbeat vocals—remarkably achieved without relying on synths—they carved out a sound entirely their own. Now, some 46 years after forming, they return with a new album, Boxing The Compass, and an extensive UK tour that brings them to the Lighthouse in Poole tonight.
Opening the evening are Stone Foundation, performing as a stripped-back acoustic trio featuring Neil Jones (vocals/guitar), Dean Arnold (keys), and Neil Sheasby (bass). Known for their collaborations with Paul Weller, they deliver a warm, British soul-infused set rooted in the Mod revival tradition. Starting with “Next Time Around,” they quickly connect with the crowd, fondly referencing the late Mr Kyps venue from previous visits to Poole. Highlights such as “Seasons of Change” and “Your Balloon Is Rising” showcase smooth vocals and tight musicianship, before closing with a lively cover of “Back To My Roots,” prompting the first singalong of the night.
After the interval, Haircut One Hundred take to the stage to a rapturous welcome. Featuring original members Nick Heyward (vocals/guitar), Les Nemes (guitar), and Graham Jones (bass), alongside drummer Blair Cunningham, plus a vibrant brass section and percussionist, the eight-piece band delivers a rich, full-bodied sound. Opening with new material, they sound revitalised, radiating sunshine-soaked energy.
A run of fan favourites from their debut album Pelican West raises the excitement levels, before “Love Plus One” gets the predominantly fifty-something crowd on their feet, dancing and singing with abandon. The band’s jazz-funk fusion—evoking hints of Cuba or the Caribbean more than suburban London—creates an irresistibly danceable atmosphere throughout.
“Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)” arrives in an extended, 12″ remix-style version, keeping the energy high, and a two-song encore featuring “Fantastic Day” ensures the night ends on a euphoric note. The audience leaves with huge smiles, having witnessed a band that not only defined a moment but continues to celebrate it with style and vitality.
Set-List
Stone Foundation
Next Time Around
Seasons of Change
Don’t Walk Away
Heaven Knows Why
Your Balloon is Rising
Street Rituals
Going Back To My Roots (Lamont Dozier Cover)
Haircut One Hundred
Come Back To Me
Vanishing Point
Calling Captain Autumn
Marine Boy
Snow Girl
Milk Film
Someone
Love Plus One
Lemon Firebrigade
The Unloving Plum
Love’s Got Me in Triangles
King Size
Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)
Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl) – 12″ Mix
Encore
Raincloud
Fantastic Day
Videos
Links
https://www.stonefoundation.co.uk
https://haircut100.com
Article by David Chinery (Chinners)
