White Lies at the Roundhouse

White Lies have returned to the Roundhouse for the first time in 13 years, in what lead singer Harry McVeigh describes as “a testament to how long we’ve been going”. On the first of two nights in Camden, a packed crowd of excited fans is ready for a show that spans their career, from classics to the new album Night Light, released late last year.

Opening with the shimmering notes of All the Best, the band starts strong, showcasing impressive vocals and striking guitar riffs that feel polished and vibrant. Farewell to the Fairground follows, a clear favourite that sends claps and cheers rippling through the Roundhouse. As the next songs play out, it’s obvious that the set is united by a bold, almost cinematic, synth-heavy sound that works well live.

There are only a few moments of intimacy between the four-piece and the audience, as they move from track to track, never letting up the electric energy of their performance. One comes as McVeigh pauses to mark ten years since the release of their record Friends, before they start to play a rediscovered gem from the album: I Don’t Want to Feel It All. It’s refreshing to see a band reflect on their discography and give the fans what they want, and it’s clear that the venue savours it, as lyrics are echoed back for every anthem.

As the set unfolds with a mix of old and new, vocal prowess and complex instrumentals punctuate the synth-driven melodies, and the backdrop of colourful neon lighting does well to complement the futuristic nostalgia that emanates.

With The Price of Love, they return to their debut album, introducing the song as one that’s rarely played live. After treating the audience to this deepcut, they continue with hit after hit, playing some of the band’s most popular numbers as the show draws to a close. Bigger Than Us stands out as a good final track, which fills the room with booming voices, singing the words right back.

When the indie rockers come back for an encore, no one has moved, waiting excitedly for just a few more songs. Once again delivering a powerful performance with Night Light, Death, and In the Middle, they continue to give us what we came for right to the very end.

If this return to the Roundhouse says anything, it’s that White Lies remain as commanding as ever.