Róisín Murphy at Alexandra Palace

If you’ve ever been to a Róisín Murphy concert, you’ll know just how much fun they are. Following the release of her latest record, Hit Parade, her sixth studio album full of future club hits, produced by DJ Koze, who’s known for his anthems, the Irish singer embarks on a new tour of the UK and Europe.

Kicking things off with Pleasure Seeker, the live band is on fire with a drum kit, bass and electric guitar, synthesiser and hand drums. Dear Miami from 2007’s Overpowered is an understated electronic song that puts everyone in the mood, characteristic of the artist’s singular sound.

Murphy’s musical career spans an impressive 30 years, and tonight there is something for everyone. With her dancefloor gems and bittersweet melancholic tracks, the venue is awash with happy faces – and plenty of dancing. Donned in an oversized black suit jacket (think David Byrne in Talking Heads) and a gleaming top hat giving horror character Babadook vibes, Simulation is backed by visual white waves mirroring heartbeats, as Murphy sensually moans into the microphone. Taken from the eponymously titled album, Overpowered sees the singer display a headpiece that recalls the dancing bird of paradise, with its shape and ruffles; the theatrical and couture element is as vital to the music as the sound. As she extends her mic to the jubilant crowd, who chant the infectious chorus, body cells accompany the track on the screen. Giving fans what they desire, she walks the front section, shaking hands, the singing never wavering. Her bewitching vocals echo in the auditorium while harmonising on You Knew, a timeless classic, with emotionally driven lyrics enough to bring tears to your eyes. A glittering guitar outro frames the track and is simple proof of how well Murphy and her band perform.

Showing gratitude, being here tonight clearly means a lot to the singer, even with the large body of work behind her. She enjoys herself as much as the audience, spurring everyone on, with another Moloko classic, The Time Is Now. Dressed in a black veil and bejewelled top for Something More, Murphy is like a sexy spectre, billowing about the stage. Performing the original version of Sing It Back sees an addictive drumming introduction (which she records as well) while everyone chants at the top of their lungs. As she zooms into her mouth with a camera, and playfully conjures surreal scenes akin to a David Lynch film, Can’t Replicate is a dark club classic. Murphy is bursting with energy throughout, doing press-ups at one point, afterwards pulling the buds off roses with her mouth, red petals falling everywhere, as she lovingly throws the remaining stems to her adoring fans, exclaiming, “I’ve always been a pleasure seeker,” and going by tonight, so have her fans. This gig was nothing short of euphoric theatrical perfection.

Selina Begum
Photos: Virginie Viche

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

Watch the video for Hit Parade here: