Millie Manders And The Shutup/Kaves
The Brickmakers B2, Norwich – 3/12/2022
It’s the last night of an extensive touring programme for Millie Manders And The Shutup so it’s fitting that it’s being held in the band’s own backyard in Norwich. Warming everyone up nicely are support act Kaves who prove to be a bit bloody good in their own right. The indie rock sound is played adeptly from every corner of the stage. The songs range from near balladic to full on rock with the tempo changes working very well. It’s the vocals that deliver the killer blow though. Less about power and more about precision Caitlin Mapes is a dynamic singer who, you suspect, has much more in the locker if needed. Kaves once again prove checking out the early bands can unearth precious hidden gems.
Millie Manders And The Shutup have recently undergone a few line up changes and the extensive touring has obviously allowed them to bed in well. Tonight is a blast from start to finish. The sound is fantastic (shout out to Saffie is needed here) and the mood is celebratory. The songs keep flowing, hit after hit, quality piled on top of quality. The rhythms pound away with joyous abandon while the guitar work is skilful and measured. Millie is a little whirlwind centre stage giving it her all, and the crowd are enjoying every moment. The singer has her mum watching and dancing here tonight, and loving every moment along with everyone else. It’s the dynamic and diverse vocals that even when you know what to expect still have you in awe. Millie Manders is clearly having fun at the Brickmakers. The audience, well, they can consider themselves fortunate to be able to see a band with big stage class playing an intimate venue. They deserve to be huge. You get the feeling it’s only a matter of time now before they are.
Review and photos by Gary Trueman