Not many bands are able to sell out a whole UK tour off the back of the release of their debut album, but Essex-based quintet Nothing But Thieves have achieved that award easily. Their nine-date October tour quickly sold out, leaving many disappointed. But those with tickets descended on the Electric Ballroom in hoards, desperate to see this incredible band in action.
A decent-sized crowd greets openers Witterquick, who bring their fun and quirky brand of indie-rock to the table. Their latest single ‘Soldiers’ is simply dreamy, but contains a strong message within, while they blaze through their other songs, supported with strong riffs and beautifully melodic vocals from larger-than-life frontman, Will Alford. And they know how to have fun, cracking out an awesome rendition of Miley Cyrus’ ‘Wrecking Ball’. Witterquick have provided a great start to the evening, and it’s guaranteed that they’ll be gaining far more recognition and the popularity that they deserve.
Pretty Vicious take over the reins next, bringing rousing, crashing guitar work into the room. ‘Black Sheep’ is loud and imposing, and sees frontman Brad Griffiths deliver his vocals in a fast-paced, demonic-like manner – pretty appropriate, considering it’s the eve of Halloween. Their tracks are guitar-heavy, complemented with the Welsh quartet’s crushing and aggressive riffs, rounded off with some furious drum-work. By the time Pretty Vicious have left the stage, they’ve whipped the crowd up into a frenzy, ready for the headliners.
Nothing But Thieves have had an incredible album run so far. Their entire UK tour has sold out and their release has entered the top 10, which explains why they’re smiling so much throughout the course of their set. They throw their all into it, making tracks like ‘Excuse Me’ soar, filling out the Ballroom until it feels like the room is about to burst. Their energy is electric and the atmosphere in the room is simply buzzing, with both young teenagers and older parents making their way down to the front, singing along with gusto and enthusiasm.
Vocalist Conor Mason is a born leader; throughout tracks such as ‘Painkiller’ and ‘Trip Switch’, he gets the room singing and moving with ease. He’s confident in his vocal abilities, as he should be – they’re able to translate their debut album beautifully into a live setting, hitting every note and chord with finesse and grace. Their riffs are striking, their energy breath-taking as demonstrated during ‘Wake Up Call’, dishing out an abundance of catchy hooks and melodic and huge choruses.
Closing with ‘Ban All the Music’, it’s clear that Nothing But Thieves are on course for a meteoric rise to success as they’ve come a long way in a short time, and they’re still only at the beginning of their journey. Crystal balls may not be real, but anyone can tell that this lot have a very bright future waiting ahead of them.
JESS TAGLIANI