Formed in 2017 the Reading rockers have amassed quite a following in recent years with their blend of pop-rock. This evening they play Manchester s Deaf Institute. Luckily we dodged the hordes of people queuing for miles outside this evening. This being the earliest of two shows Only The Poets will perform at the Deaf Institute.
We arrived sharply inside the venue, only to be greeted by a bustling room where noise levels and excitement were increasing by the minute. Revellers continued to stream through the doors in time for the performance this evening.
A roar of anticipation fills the compact venue as Only The Poets enter on-stage amongst a wave of strobe lighting. As the first notes are played this evening the audience need no instructions to become involved. The enthusiasm and excitement in the room that has been bubbling all evening is released in the form of screams and shrieks as the quartet begin each passing number this evening.
Lighting is minimal tonight, mainly consisting of intense strobe lighting at random intervals during the performance, aided by the standard venue lighting here at the Deaf Institute. The resurgence of the 90’s Brit-Pop era is noticeable, not just from the audience but the band alike. Dressed in baggy attire from head-to-toe, lead vocalist and guitarist Tommy Longhurst addresses the audience for the first time tonight before thundering into Over and Over. “Manchester, how we feeling?” This remark causes near pandemonium from the youthful, almost all female crowd this evening.
Despite the wild euphoria going on in front of them, Only The Poets remain somewhat un-phased by the audience’s reactions. As they continue to play a well-rehearsed and solid set tonight. The first of two performances by Only The Poets this evening has been a huge success. A solid performance, catchy tracks throughout and a euphoric reaction from the audience all evening.
In support of the LIVE Trust, the band have announced they will be headlining O2 Academy Brixton on 2nd February with tickets costing just £1 (plus fees). Seven years ago the band charged £1 for entry for their first show and this full circle moment will come days after the release of their debut album And I’d Do It Again. Tickets and further details are available HERE
7/10
Written by: Ben Gilligan
