The Last Dinner Party at Brixton Academy

Brixton Academy was transformed into a gothic playground for London’s own, The Last Dinner Party, on the final leg of their tour promoting new album From the Pyre. In October, the record placed at number two on the UK Album Charts and for good reason: it’s an expertly curated experience, one that feels entirely character-driven yet hauntingly personal.

The Last Dinner Party twirled onto the stage, greeted by an eruption of noise from the crowd, styled in cascading ballgowns and lace – think Marie Antoinette if she lived in Dalston. The lights faded into red, and the bass rumbled as the show opened with Agnus Dei, the first song on the new album. Frontwoman Abigail Morris brought an entrancing theatrical element to the performance. The audience were clearly spellbound by the perfect synergy of song, staging and wardrobe. 

There was a buzz of feminine energy throughout the venue as the band played hits such as Feminine Urge and Sinner from their previous album Prelude to Ecstasy. Each member had their moment in the spotlight, creating a refreshingly even rotation. Keyboardist, Aurora Nishevci, performed the melancholy ballad Hold Your Anger. Fans fell silent during the song, preferring to honour the music itself rather than participating. 

The group waltzed and spun across the stage, creating a dynamic and hypnotising sight. A riot of frills and thigh-high boots, it was impossible to look away from the girls in gowns wielding electric guitars. 

Every corner of the hall sprung into action at the opening beats of the band’s debut single Nothing Matters. The girls laughed and embraced each other as the room echoed the lyrics back to them; the pure joy was tangible.

A myriad of talent and female power, The Last Dinner Party are reviving the lost art of performance, intertwining theatre and expert lyricism while keeping the fun alive. A girl band like no other, they are truly bewitching. 

Flora Allison
Photos: LA Benoit

For further information and future events, visit The Last Dinner Party’s website here.

Watch the video for Count The Ways here: