Two Door Cinema Club are a band I’ve wanted to see live for about 6 years, and at London’s Alexandra Palace, they didn’t disappoint.
For fans of Tourist History, it was a dream. The majority of the songs were fun throwbacks which got everyone moving. Songs from their later albums were well selected to ensure everyone was happy. I have no complaints about them playing ‘Sun’, ‘Sleep Alone’, or ‘Next Year’. Their new album also featured (which makes sense) for five songs – and these went down a treat. ‘Bad Decisions’, ‘Gameshow’, and ‘Are We Ready’ were highlights and saw everyone screaming along.
Their new songs in particular really demonstrated what a good live band they are. Alex Trimble’s falsettos never wavered, and the more complex rhythms and riffs were executed perfectly. It showed that they’re capable of more than just happy indie music. But having said that, there’s nothing wrong with happy indie music. They commanded the crowd really well, and there wasn’t a single person stood still or silent. It was like a festival crowd packed into a venue. There were masses of people on shoulders, tipsy people having fun, a lot of glitter, more crowdsurfing than I’ve ever seen, and a generally friendly atmosphere.
Throughout the set, their stage was lit up like a Christmas tree. Strobes, UV lights, and flashing rectangles made the gig as much of a light show as it was a music show. Think The 1975 on speed. The only complaint I have about this, which probably reflects more on Alexandra Palace than the band, is that for some fans, incredibly bright lights were shone directly in their eyes. At times, this distracted from the music and was a bit of a headache.
The only other negative was bucket hat boys trying to start pits to slow songs and trying to punch people. The amount of pre-teens who will try and elbow you in the face is ridiculous. Honestly, you’ll have a better time further back where there is space to b-r-e-a-t-h-e.
Aside from that, it was a great gig.