The Sherlocks at Electric Ballroom for NME Awards Shows 2018

Sheffield-based band The Sherlocks have built up their following over the years in the best way possible: by playing as many gigs on as many stages as they can. After supporting the likes of Kings of Leon on an arena tour and playing festival after festival last year, it’s no wonder they know how to please their fans and sell out a venue – which is what they did at Electric Ballroom on Friday night as part of the NME Awards Shows 2018.

The indie rockers released their debut album, Live for the Moment, last year, featuring the hits they’ve been playing for years as their fanbase grew. In a single-packed set, Last Night was the perfect opener with its addictive drum beats and “Can you remember” refrain. Shortly after, the meaningful lyrics of Blue – and the heartfelt vocals of Kiaran Crook – charmed the crowd in attendance. The anthemic Will You Be There showed off an intro befitting of a great first track on a record and the gentler and more melodic Turn the Clock was a welcome change of pace.

Despite some rather serious technical glitches during Heart of Gold, the band – and the fans – kept it together, playing a very stripped-back rendition of Chasing Shadows with just the chords and the Electric Ballroom singing along. The audience were duly rewarded for their support with a cover of the Oasis anthem Don’t Look Back in Anger, which had the room swaying, fully in the spirit of things.

Finishing up with Live for the Moment and a full, joyful performance of Chasing Shades, this young four-piece proved that they’re heading faster and farther in the right direction. The next step will be trying to find a more defined identity that sets them aside from the bands (especially The Courteeners) they clearly draw inspiration from.

Alex White
Photos: Yufan Wang

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

Watch the video for Live for the Moment here: