The crowd sings along, too, even though the PA fails to carry its volume to the people at the back of a heaving room. With its flat floor, the Academy is also an enemy of people who happen to stand somewhat below average height.
Overall, though, the evening still ascends to something approaching joy. At the end of the night, an introduction to (What’s So Funny About) Peace, Love & Understanding – by Nick Lowe, and popularised by Elvis Costello & And The Attractions – dedicated to the victims of the Southern Californian wildfires adds weight to the notion that this is a man who has fought his way out of the bubble in which other rock stars reside. For sure, it’s a nice touch. From Wembley Stadium to a tight and fetid club in Islington, Billie Joe Armstrong continues to find ways to be himself.