Metronomy at Alexandra Palace

Last February, English electronic music group Metronomy released their seventh studio album, Small World. “It feels so good to be back,” Joe Mount beams on It’s Good to Be Back, the third track: they’re happy to return to where they belong, on the stage, singing and playing with their fans – and an atmospheric venue like Alexandra Palace is the best place to do it. The enthusiasm is hard to resist. They warm up the crowd with Love Factory, their latest single, and The Bay, one of their most beloved hits. By the end of the second song, the room is on fire, with beautiful lights and curated scenography making the atmosphere even more magical. 

The balanced alternation between new songs and older hits gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy themselves, from nostalgic die-hard fans to newcomers. The wholesome and cheerful new track Things Will Be Fine is followed by an instrumental interlude, a quick succession of The Light, The End of You Too and Boy Racers, the last a highlight of the gig. The band give 100%, resulting in an incredibly liberating, powerful moment. The atmosphere is indeed vibrant.

With Holiday and Insecurity, Metronomy indulge their rock’n’roll side and frontman Joseph Mount invites the crowd to go wild: “London is, after all, the city that loves rock’n’roll the most, isn’t it?” He doesn’t need to say it twice – the bravest (and tallest) fans throw themselves and each other in the mosh pit. It doesn’t last long, as the artists soon return to their distinctive electro sound, with Loneliness on the Run and Salted Caramel Ice Cream.  

The Look is one of those hits that receives a warm welcome with barely the first hint of its opening notes. A constellation of phones appears and everyone sings at the top of their voices. The time for a ballad finally comes, a few couples slow dance and the atmosphere shifts. The Upsetter puts an end to the gig, leaving smiles on everyone’s. Mount introduces the other members of the group, and the crowd never stops cheering. After a heartfelt thank you to London for being so warm and welcoming, the band leave the stage, only to come back a few minutes later for a much-wanted encore. 

Metronomy sure know how to put on a good show.

Diletta Lobuono
Photos: Guifré de Peray

For further information and future events visit Metronomy’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Love Factory here: