LIVE REVIEW: The Big Moon
The Big Moon
Oslo Hackney, London, 4th March 2020
Words and Photography: Amy Butcher
Having released their album Walking Like We Do last month, The Big Moon have had nothing but praise on what has to be my favourite album of 2020 so far. Listening to tracks Why and Holy Roller, I had been itching to see them live ever since.
I don’t know why, but there is something special about trekking through the rain and entering a warm venue to see one of your favourite bands live. After facing the cold winds of Storm Jorge, tonight I would be seeing the four-piece at Hackney’s Oslo – the final show of the album’s UK headline tour, for Annie Mac Presents.
Before the main event began, we were treated to a set from London based band Talk Show and boy did they get things started. Gritty guitar riffs and titillating drum beats filled the room, as singer Harrison exuded confidence in his performance.
For some support bands, it’s tough engaging with an audience who potentially don’t know who you are, but Talk Show took this as an opportunity to show us what they’re made of with Harrison coming into the crowd to sing and play guitar. Let’s just say, they made an impact.
As Annie Mac walked onto the stage and introduced The Big Moon, the crowd erupted into loud cheers, the four piece walked onto the stage and kick started with fan favourite Sucker. Bringing their addictive guitar riffs, intoxicating melodies and Jules’ soulful vocals, there wasn’t a person not dancing to the sounds.
Gliding through tracks such as Take A Piece, It’s Easy Then and Why, it felt so good to finally hear some of my favourite album tracks live. Whether it was hearing the delectable flute intro from Barcelona or the entrancing bass lines in Holy Roller, every song was perfect live in its own right.
I thought I couldn’t be surprised by the London band live, but when they launched into a phenomenal cover of Praise You, I was in awe; it’s safe to say they are one of the most talented and fun bands I’ve ever seen live.