Tucked away in Camden market Dingwalls is a friendly venue with a relaxed atmosphere. Its tiered layout is perfect for gig goers, particularly those whose stature means they usually struggle to see. Opening up tonight Autumn Fires have you immediately thinking of early Paramore both in their song structures and the way Charlotte Haimes delivers her vocals. Each instrument is handled with great confidence while the crowd, already pretty big (well done for turning up early) react well to the four piece who have youthful enthusiasm in abundance. Being the sole support places a fair bit of responsibility on the band’s collective shoulders, and they do themselves proud.
This is a special show for Millie Manders And The Shutup tonight. They’ve decided to add live horn and string sections plus a keyboard player as a one off. This is no easy task but is well worth it purely for that dynamic you get from those extra instruments actually being there. The fit is magical, it adds to the show’s energy rather than slowing it down, partly due to some slick changeovers, but mostly down to the extra musicians having such a great feel for the music. The band themselves are on fire and it soon becomes as much a party as a gig. We get bubbles in the air, lots of bubbles in fact. We get audience participation from the ‘Ted Army’ that would make arena bands jealous. And we get a set crammed full of songs you want to dance and sing along to. Pete and George’s rhythms are infectious. Joe’s guitar work is sublime. And Millie, well, Millie is passionate, vocally stunning and tonight, absolutely iconic. You want to front a band? This is how it’s done. This is success earned through a mountain of hard work, and proof that teamwork and the DIY ethic can pay dividends. On the tube heading home all you can see are ‘Ted’ hoodies and tees freshly bought. Testimony enough to just what a night this was.
Review and photos by Gary Trueman