Melbourne's Festival Hall sold out months ago for the anticipated return of English band London Grammar.
The past eighteen months has been a steep learning curve for London Grammar, which has seen each member, particularly vocalist Hannah Reid, blossom from shy novices into mature performers.
On stage first for the night was British fellows, Until the Ribbon Breaks, bringing an interesting mix of electronic pop followed by a shy and unsettled New York outfit, Wet (above). Similar in tone to London Grammar, Wet, washed out any of the stresses of the day with their dry, somewhat lonesome, pop.
On came London Grammar, who set the bar at unreachable levels, really. The mix and the lighting were divine which led the way for the ethical vocals and smooth rhythms which are signature for this band.
After a very long and sober intro, in almost complete darkness, a bright light shone behind the beautiful lead singer as if she were an angel. It wasn’t until the third song until the lights revealed the band in its entirety.
CLICK: For our photo gallery on the night.
Being a relatively new outfit — and the fact that they have been on tour pretty much from their successful formation — London Grammar lacks catalogue material, and so not unsurprisingly regaled a short set list comprising very similar material.
It was a lovely, pleasurable night and a solid one at that. We will see much more of London Grammar in the coming years, and it’s quite obvious they have much more in the tank. After a couple of festivals, they will have a short break and are eager to get back into the studio to lay down their new creations.
It's a 'bravo' to London Grammar, I must say old chaps.
London Grammar at Festival Hall, Melbourne
1. Hey Now (Extended Intro)2. Darling Are You Gonna Leave Me
3. Interlude
4. Shyer
5. Wasting My Young Years
6. Flickers (Help Me Lose My Mind Outro)
7. Sights
8. Stay Awake
9. Nightcall (Kavinsky cover)
10. Strong
Encore:
11. If You Wait
12. Metal & Dust (Extended Outro)
