Green Day have been criticised for not being “a real punk band” with their last two albums: “American Idiot” in 2004 and the recent “21st Century Breakdown” considered by some as pompous and pretentious, they continue to be labelled in certain corners as cartoon rock stars, playing a frivolous and sterile brand of pop-punk.

However, their popularity cannot be denied, with the latest album reaching number one in 15 countries, with platinum sales in at least 6, and a current sell out arena tour, they are confirmed as one of the most successful bands in the world at present.

Tonight, the first of two dates at the LG Arena, 14,000 fans witness Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar), Mike Dirnt (bass), and Tré Cool (drums), and an additional three musicians procured for live performances; deliver a truly energetic and exhilarating show.

Opening with “21st Century Breakdown” followed by “Know Your Enemy”, Billie Joe pulls an excited fan onstage and encourages him to take a run and stage dive back into the crowd. This is the first of several acts designed to get fans directly involved in the show; which later, during “Longview” includes three young wannabes playing their heroes instruments in front of the packed arena. Surely, a night none of them will ever forget.

Continuing with “East Jesus Nowhere” from the latest album, there is no sign of pomposity or pretentiousness during what becomes a monumental set of both new and old tunes. Included are 4 more from “21st Century Breakdown” and older tracks include: “Holiday”, “Boulevard of Broken Dreams”, “Hitchin a Ride”, “Brain Stew”, “Jaded”, “Basket Case”, “She” and “King for a Day”. Thrown in for good measure is a version of the Isley Brothers’ “Shout!” which incorporates “Satisfaction”, “Teenage Kicks”, “I Fought the Law” and “I'll Be There”.

Amongst extended sing-alongs and audience participation, pyrotechnics and video screens, along with the breathless pace of the performance, Billy Joe sprays the front rows with water and shoots t-shirts into the crowd with an air-gun. Highlighting his love of the UK, he reminds the audience of the important heavy metal heritage held in Birmingham; this before a quick rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man”. Armstrong is without question a superlative and accomplished frontman, although I guess he probably won’t be rushing to “move across the pond” from California as he suggests he intends to do.

The encore set consists of “American Idiot”, “Jesus of Suburbia”, “Minority” and Billy Joe’s solo acoustic finale “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)”. As per the previous two and a half hours, Green Day have the audience in the palm of their hand throughout, whilst providing value for money and a show to talk about for some time to come.