Live Review: London Grammar, Wet, Until The Ribbon Breaks

The cavernous Hordern Pavilion was to be filled to the brim for tonight’s show, but it started slowly as Until The Ribbon Breaks, buddies of the headliners and budding producer and singer-songwriter, eased us into it.

A moody downbeat vibe and heavy percussion underpin the strong, Sting-esque voice of lead singer, Pete Lawrie Winfield, but they failed to capture the attention of the distracted (and mostly seated) audience.

Minimal three-piece Wet continued with the relaxed vibe. This buzz band out of Brooklyn has been gradually spreading their electronic wings with songs like Dreams and Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl getting local airplay. Lead singer, Kelly Zutrau, has an impressive voice that, tonight, floated over the chatter of the crowd, forcing them to listen. You can even excuse the electronic drum kit after watching how well Joe Valle controls it. There’s a lot to like about this trio.

Following the postponement of their tour last year, the anticipation was simmering and exacerbated further by the late arrival of the band. The silhouettes of the three members of London Grammar appeared gradually as the opening bars of Hey Now gave the crowd collective goosebumps. The audible breaths taken by lead singer, Hannah Reid, while performing the intimate start to the song were equal parts heartbreaking and breathtaking. Unfortunately, their setlist has changed little since their last tour and with no new material to perform some fans may have been disappointed. The impressive light show and addition of a string quartet, however, gave a new and expressive layer to the band’s performance.

The rocking rendition of Flickers and cover of Kavinsky’s Nightcall were highlights as all songs from London Grammar’s debut album, If You Wait, were performed. Reid’s voice is wonderful; soaring but husky, with a delicate tinge, she controls it to perfection. Worthy of the sold out crowd that attended.