After a busy summer playing at numerous festivals the British indie-pop band and four-time BRIT nominated Bastille return to their roots with the Still Avoiding Tomorrow tour in the UK.
As soon as front-man Dan Smith’s distinctive vocals fill the room in Glasgow’s O2 Academy it becomes clear this is going to be a memorable evening.
Smith opens the performance sitting at a piano, his face masked by his hood with the stage bathed in white light and a huge digital clock behind them before launching into a 20 song set list.
He sported a skinhead look with casual clothing just to show that he looks just like one of us, even though his voice can send shivers down anyone’s spine.
Bastille worked through their most popular songs from their two studio albums, Bad Blood and Wild World as well as a selection from the earlier mixtapes.
The visuals and props used throughout the gig really gave a modern vibe to an alternative setting. It was like the band was trying to emphasise that even if technology changes, their music will not. Even the props like the brown couch covered in graffiti from their 2016 tour made an appearance.
The band make you think about weighty issues of our modern society with songs like The Currents, without suffocating you with their opinion. Bastille are the first to admit they can’t solve it by any means, but offer hope that no matter how bleak things get, there will always be someone to stand up against it.
Supporting acts, The Dawn of May and Scottish born Lewis Capaldi, were each welcomed back for one song which is amazing to witness as the support acts are usually forgotten about once they have performed their set earlier on in the evening.
Each member spoke to the audience about the success and dreams they have for the band for the future without giving too much away – hopefully some big collaborations.
The energy at the concert was like no other. Fans were singing their hearts out throughout the whole performance, dancing wildly and chanting every time Smith stopped to take a sip of water.
To top the gig off, he chose to sing the song Flaws whilst walking through the crowd which was very personal. He tries to make connections with the audience by giving out as many handshakes, smiles and hugs as he could in the space of two minutes.
It is clear to see Bastille appreciate the music they write and the image portrayed to the audience.
One unforgettable night. One talented band.
Header image: Chuff Media
