The Lathums at Blackpool Tower Online

To the faded sounds of claps and cheers, The Lathums walk onto the stage dressed in neutral tones which are highlighted by the set’s translucent lights. The venue is adorned with cryptic circus remnants, complete with a round red carpet and a golden chandelier which envelop the scene in a lively atmosphere undeterred by the array of empty seats. The band stands, ready to perform as the ringmaster introduces them with a welcoming grin.

The group begins with Villainous Victorian, a perfect start for this particular setting that lends itself to the concert’s overarching theme. Circuses were very popular in the Victorian era, and The Lanthums perform the track with the charisma and edge that it demands. It’s heavier than most of the songs that follow, but not as rough as It Won’t Take Long. The former remains calm and sets a precedent for the steady, controlled vocals that recur throughout the night. The latter, on the other hand, is a sultry rock number accompanied by crass strums, frantic flashing lights and an unsteady camera flow.

The night’s best performance is Crying Out, a soft start that transitions into longer notes which then evolve into desperation. But it doesn’t quite reach its peak, and that firm hold that Alex Moore has on his vocals remains. There is a distorted synergy between his voice and the instruments as the piece slows down once again. The specific focus on each individual instrument in turn generates well-deserved anticipation as the song builds back up to complete immersion. Another highlight is I Know that Much, a tune reminiscent of summer vibes drenched in winter colours, teaching sombre lessons with an upbeat tempo.

All My Life is a quiet retreat that slows the concert down and transitions it into a more delicate show. Moore’s notes tremble, a perfect match for the lyrics. With the guitar placed aside, his vocal prowess is maximised to its full potential, and he treats the audience to an incredible closing performance of Time for Me, Light for You. After this, the band then moves back into the same old jolly circus-themed music that initially opened the night. While it is a symbolic full circle that remains true to its thematic make-up, the end feels a little empty and anti-climactic, leaving the audience underwhelmed and craving a resolution.

Mae Trumata
Photo: Sam Crowston

For further information and future events visit The Lathums’ website here.

Watch the video for The Great Escape here: