The Fratellis at the Forum

The general public probably haven’t heard a huge amount from The Fratellis in the best part of ten years. Not since their self-titled EP took the charts by storm back in 2006, when indie rock was at its pinnacle.

But at Kentish Town’s Forum last night, the Scottish rockers’ fans were waiting with baited breath. The suspense built, increasingly emphasised by flashing lights and a long rendition of a song often associated with the “Can-can”, before The Fratellis entered the stage – and when they did there was a hungry crowd awaiting them.

They opened with We Need Medicine, a track from their third studio album and the first since their reunion back in 2012. With an Americana vibe, it’s clear to see how the band’s musical style has shifted over time; it’s debatable as to whether this is in a good way. They then slowed it right down by playing some of the songs from their latest album, Eyes Wide, Tongue Tied, in particular Imposters (Little by Little), which rapidly reduced the energy of the audience.

Frontman Jon Fratelli didn’t engage with the fans until about at least 20 minutes in to the gig, suggesting a mild arrogance; but no less than 30 seconds or so later there was really no need. Just the first few notes of the introduction to Henrietta and the crowd went wild. A sense of nostalgia passed through the room, along with a few plastic bottles tossed here and there, perhaps reminding everyone of the band’s glory days at V Festival. The classics, including Whistle for the Choir and Chelsea Dagger, continued well into the night with a few new tracks played in between.

Any true Fratelli followers would be chuffed with last night’s set list – it’s always disappointing when bands don’t play their hits, right? They’ve certainly changed their sound since starting out as the lad indie three-piece they’re probably predominantly recognised as; nevertheless the Glasgow-based rockers gave a solid performance of both old and new material, with some we just couldn’t help singing along to.

Hannah Staunton
Photos: Kinga Kutermankiewicz

For further information about The Fratellis and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Henrietta here: