The Last Dinner Party, delivered a dynamic performance that felt both ethereal and electrifying, keeping the crowd hooked from the first note to the last.
The band proved beyond a doubt why they were crowned this year’s Best New Artist at the Brit Awards as they took to the stage at the Octagon Centre as part of their world tour of the new album From the Pyre.
Imogen and the Knife took to the stage before The Last Dinner Party, building the excitement of the crowd. The Newcastle born singer, Imogen Williams, sang an unreleased track called “girl (running)” which was charged with energy, grabbing the crowd’s attention for the entirety of their set. Definitely an artist to watch out for in the future.
The Last Dinner Party launched into their set with “Agnus Dei”, (“lamb of God” in Latin), a track which blends folkloric undertones of love sacrificed on a pyre with a driving rock’n’roll guitar riff. This opener established the energetic tone for the night.
The stage was elevated by their unique style of baroque-inspired outfits accented with modern embellishments, making the performance come to life.
Screams filled the venue as the drumbeat signalled the start of “The Feminine Urge”, a song about navigating womanhood, that clearly resonated with many in the audience.
It was here the lead singer, Abigail Morris, introduced her fellow band members: Lizzie Mayland on guitar, Emily Roberts on lead guitar and flute, Georgia Davis on Bass, Aurora Nishevci on keys, and Casper Miles on drums.
From the Pyre is an album that leans further into experimentation, with other band members stepping into the spotlight to take the lead on vocals for a track.
A moment that stands out is when Aurora Nishevci sings “Gjuha”, which she introduces by explaining that she feels ashamed by not knowing her mother tongue very well. The harmonised Albanian with her bandmates turns this piece into a poignant reflection of heritage and belonging.
At this point the pace slowed as we reached the songs “The Scythe” and “Sail Away”. These songs contemplate the inevitability of life and death, washing the room in a contemplative stillness. The band’s vocals blend with effortless precision, adding emotional depth to each song.
Abigail talked about the band’s partnership with Bankuet, a food bank that uses donations to deliver essential food for those who need it most. The Last Dinner Party initiated “Ribbons for Provisions”, where fans donate to Bankeut, either at gigs or online, and in return they receive a ribbon. Their previous campaign raised £58,000 and they aim to raise even more on this tour. Their mission is to make donating to food banks more accessible.
The pace suddenly changed, with red lighting for a crowd favourite “My Lady of Mercy”, where Abigail went down to the barricade to serenade the crowd. With her at eye-level you could really feel the connection between artist and audience.
With the crowd at its loudest the band ended on a high with their most famous song “Nothing Matters”, sparking a surge of ecstatic dancing.
The evening sadly had to end, but not before we danced the monster mash to “This is the Killer Speaking”. A truly electrifying experience.
The Last Dinner Party continues their tour in the UK before heading off to Australia. The show was an amazing experience. If you have the opportunity to see this band, take it.
10/10
Images via Amy Field
