2024/02/10 – Sea Power – Town Hall, Birmingham
Review & Photos: G. Rossington
On February 10, 2024, the Town Hall in Birmingham hosted an evening of evocative and powerful music as Sea Power (formerly British Sea Power) took to the stage to celebrate the 15th Anniversary of their third studio album ‘Do You Like Rock Music?’. Known for their unique blend of indie rock and post-punk, Sea Power delivered a performance that was both mesmerizing and thought-provoking, perfectly suited to the grandeur of the venue.
As the lights dimmed and a hush fell over the crowd, Sea Power took the stage to a wave of applause. Opening with A powerful version of ‘All In It’ that explodes in to ‘Lights Out for Darker Skies’, they immediately captivated the audience with their atmospheric sound and powerful lyrics. The grandeur of the Town Hall’s acoustics added a new dimension to their music, making the performance feel both intimate and epic.
The setlist was was the entirety of the album played in full (with the exception of the final studio track ‘We Close Our Eyes’) and provided a well-balanced mix of classic hits and newer material. Songs like ‘Waving Flags’ and ‘No Lucifer’ had the crowd singing along, their anthemic choruses which filled the historic hall. The band’s performance of ‘The Great Skua’ was a standout moment, its instrumental beauty resonating deeply with the audience and showcasing their ability to create powerful emotional landscapes through music.
Sea Power’s musicianship was impeccable throughout the night. Yan and Hamilton’s vocal interplay, combined with Noble’s distinctive guitar work and Wood’s dynamic drumming, created a rich and textured sound. The addition of Abi Fry on viola added a hauntingly beautiful layer to the music, enhancing the band’s signature sound.
Their stage presence was both commanding and understated. All band members were fully immersed in their performance, allowing the music to speak for itself. Their subtle interactions with the audience, coupled with their passionate delivery, created a sense of connection and shared experience.
The visual elements of the show were perfectly in synch with the band’s general aesthetic. The stage was adorned with foliage and various props, creating a whimsical yet eerie atmosphere. The lighting design, with its dramatic shifts and subdued tones, complemented the music beautifully, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the performance.
After a brief departure from the stage, Sea Power returned for an encore that brought the night to a powerful close. Lead single from their last album ‘Everything Was Forever’, the feisty ‘Two Fingers’ was the moment to launch another full audience singalong. ‘Remember Me’, a fan favorite that had the entire hall singing along. The final song of the night, ‘Carrion’ was an emotional and fitting end to the concert. The subtle segue in to a reprise of ‘All In It’ was a great round up back to the start of the show which as the final note rings out, it leaves the audience in a state of reflective awe.
Sea Power at the Birmingham Town Hall was a night of profound musical and emotional resonance. The combination of the band’s exceptional performance, the stunning venue, and the well-curated setlist created an unforgettable experience. The historic setting of the Town Hall amplified the emotional impact of the music, making for a deeply moving concert.
Sea Power delivered a performance that was both powerful and poignant, showcasing their ability to create an immersive and emotional musical journey. Their connection with the audience and the unique atmosphere of the venue made for a truly memorable evening. For fans and newcomers alike, it was a night that highlighted the enduring appeal and artistic depth of their catalogue. An exceptional concert that left a lasting impression.
