The Last Dinner Party
The Last Dinner Party have such a unique, nostalgic charm that makes their live shows truly memorable. And it makes the show all the better that you can tell the members have an absolute blast on stage.
Off the back of their 3rd album “The Pyre”, The Last Dinner party descended upon the UEA on a chilly November evening. The weather appropriately suited the brooding sound of the alternative 5 piece. The LCR was draped in layers of ghostly white fabric, making the venue look almost like an elegant medieval hall.
Hailing all the way from Newcastle, Imogen and The Knife opened proceedings with a witch-like ominous charm. Comparisons could be drawn to Florence and the Machine, or Kate Bush, with enchanting deep vocals and sweeping instrumentals. She struck a similar fantastical chord to the headline act, commanding the room with ease.
The Last Dinner Party confidently strutted into their positions on stage, diving straight into the explosive “Agnus Dei”. Front-woman Abigail Morris didn’t stand still for a moment of the set, sauntering from one side of the stage to the other with charismatic prowess. Her dance moves were simply enigmatic and she was such a pleasure to watch.
“The Feminine Urge” prompted the first big sing along moment of the evening, with it’s catchy riffs and bombastic chorus. This lead to a run of hits from 2nd album “Prelude to Ecstasy” with the rousing swell of “Caeser on a TV Screen” and the more contemplative “On Your Side”.
As well as Abigail being so entertaining as a front woman, the whole band had a beautiful chemistry that was a joy to watch.
Keyboardest Aurora shared a lovely sentiment of her passion for languages, inspired by hit film “Kneecap”. This was followed by the showstopping choral “Gjuha”. The gothic esq storytelling continued with “Rifle”, with it’s engrossing deep basslines.
It’s always special when artists use their platform to make a difference, and The Last Dinner Party opted to do so with “Ribbons for Provisions”. At every show, they sell customised ribbons that their fans can wear. The proceeds of which support local food-banks. Not only is this a unique way to connect with fans, but it raises a tonne of money to support vulnerable communities (around £60,000 on their last tour!). Abigail shared this before the elegant piano ballad “Sail Away”, allowing for a sweet moment of contemplation amongst the vibrant theatrics of the show.
Smash single “Nothing Matters” closed the set, with everybody screaming the tongue and cheek gratuitous chorus. But the chaos wasn’t over, as the group taught the crowd a special dance to the euphoric “This Is The Killer Speaking”. It was a beautiful way to bring the room together in a bubble of all encompassing joy.
The Last Dinner Party have such a unique, nostalgic charm that makes their live shows truly memorable. And it makes the show all the better that you can tell the members have an absolute blast on stage.
