Hudson Taylor at Electric Ballroom

Some of us must not be up to date: when did Hudson Taylor become superstars? At least, that’s what it looked like last night at the Electric Ballroom, where the Irish duo played their biggest ever headline show so far. Brothers Harry and Alfie, whose debut album is scheduled for release at the end of this summer, performed at the sold-out venue with their pop-folk that both entertains and enchants the crowd.

The fans were a great part of the show, welcoming their idols on stage with a roar and steadily supporting them throughout the gig. The layout could have been better arranged, as the concert started off full throttle but then gave way to a more laid back – nearly boring – set, only reprising its strength at the end. The crowd were enthusiastic throughout, regardless of the mood provided by the songs, but Hudson Taylor are at their best when their guitars are joined by a kicking, drum-driven rhythm. Expect no traditional Irish music though: instruments like the violin are hardly featured. The boys prefer using acoustic patterns and the harmony of their gentle voices as their weapons. Their music is at times melodic and at others more upbeat, but songs like Care, Second Best or Battles and Weapons proved equally successful.

When the songs weren’t engaging enough to make them dance, the audience took comfort and shelter in a warm-hearted sing-along in tune with the brothers. Called On, Chasing Rubies, World Without You and Beautiful Mistake were intense with everyone singing out loud in unison, and upgrading their status from relatively new to classic anthems in no time.

It was with more fast-paced tracks like Drop of Smoke that the band really managed to spark a tumultuous energy, which shook the whole Ballroom. The interesting Lose Yourself Walking on the Flume – a mash-up of covers by Eminem, The Police and Bon Iver – in the heavily requested encore showed that the guys may be pop influenced, but more than just the next pop band.

Rita Vicinanza
Photos: Adam Bennett

For further information and future events visit Hudson Taylor’s website here.

Watch the video for Battles here: