Razorlight at Roundhouse

2^nd May 2025

Glory Matondo

Shot by Nick Bennett

Glory Matondo Shot by Nick Bennett

2 May 2025

To promote their latest album Planet Nowhere and to remind fans of the greatness of their earlier work, including UP All Night and the self-titled album Razorlight (which reached number one on the UK charts), Razorlight, an indie-rock band led by charismatic frontman Johnny Borrell, performed at the iconic Roundhouse Theatre in Camden during the London leg of their UK tour.

With an explosive entry onto the stage earning a colossal round of applause, Razorlight started the night with an electric performance of the post-punk inspired song Rip It Up; Borrell showcased his passionate yet raspy baritone vocals, gritty vibratos and immaculate stage presence, captivating the hearts of their devotees who responded with deafening cheers; the drummer Andy Burrows impressed with his powerful yet alluring drumming style.

Throughout the night Borrell jumped, skipped and ran across the stage as if he was under the spell of the Gods of rock music, and Razorlight reminded fans why they won their hearts with a masterful performance of In the Morning, featuring astonishing electric guitar riffs and impeccable stage craft yet again from Borrell. The audience turned into a choir and Borrell, the choirmaster, when they sang the entire outro while he watched with pride.

Despite tapping into the nostalgia of their early discography, their latest album (which Borrell happily pointed out was well-received by critics) also impressed attendees. The hilariously named song Taylor Swift = US Soft Propaganda earned rhythmic claps during the performance, the guitar riffs and the up-tempo Zombie Love had the room dancing and whenever the chorus was sung, the entire theatre chanted “Oh, oh-oh-oh” and continued till the end of the section, indicating Razorlight haven’t lost their knack for catchy melodies that have made them so beloved. With the album closer, that was coincidentally titled April Ends, Borrell showed his versatility by ditching the powerful vocals and choosing a softer tone, which also impressed the audience.

Highlights of the night included high-octane performances of Golden Touch and Don’t Go Back to Dalston. The set ended with a rendition of their chart-topping single, America and the band leaving the stage to loud cheers and claps.

Razorlight are proof that supporting live acts is rewarding, as both the band and their fans had the time of their lives at this magnificent show.

Glory Matondo
Photos: Nick Bennett

For further information and future events, visit Razorlight’s website here.

Watch the video for the single America here: