The six-strong band brought their eclectic sound to Somerset House Summer Series.
Photo: Black Country, New Road
The last time I attended a Black Country, New Road event, I had been lucky enough to be invited to the Dolby Studio’s listening party, celebrating their new (at the time) album, Forever Howlong. These two events couldn’t be more disparate, but somehow both felt similarly intimate.
In their newest chapter, music shaped by Forever Howlong sees BCNR lean into their folkier elements, with more intentional classical moving into art-rock arrangements; you get the feeling they’ve poured a lot of love into this project since their post-punk roots.
One of the most notable trademarks of any band is the fans. I always take a moment to people-watch at gigs, catch the vibe of hardcore BCNR’ers, couples on dates, people just ‘giving them a go’; one thing I always notice is the warm, welcoming nature of every crowd. I noticed young people inviting solo gig-goers to join their group, people asking to sit next to us, people laughing and singing together; it was quite heart-warming. It may not be too far a stretch to say BCNR write music for warm people (literally and metaphorically in the context of this show).
Instead of beginning the show with one of their own, the band decided to start the show with a cover of Wings’ Band on the Run. It seems a fitting title for a band who have had many ups and downs, whose members have some popular side/solo projects, and who never seem to bend to varied opinion. They always play together so beautifully, and it almost feels like watching a living, breathing machine, rather than six individual musicians.
One thing you can always expect from a BCNR show is exceptional musicianship. Their ability to write complex yet catchy songs whilst balancing the size of the band without any ego, allowing each member to shine, really came through at this show. It felt as though they allowed each other to tell their own story, show off their personal contribution to the band and then come together to realise their potential; it isn’t something you see in many mainstream success stories.
Georgia Ellery’s performance stood out to me this evening. Her songs always have an emotional element that you can’t help but enjoy. Two Horses is a great tune for BCNR, as it shows off their perfect blend of complex arrangement with a listenable, infectious melody.
As a setting, Somerset House was perfect. Surrounded by the beauty and stature of such a location could distract you from the music but, this time round, it all felt very interconnected. Often, the crowd would fall silent, appreciating the emotion of many of the songs. During these times, you would look around, take in the crowd and collective listening, marvel at the majesty of Somerset House whilst getting glassy-eyed as the sun begins to set over this wonderful event.
All in all, one of London’s most historic and storied venues made a temporary home for one of London’s most adventurous bands.
