Glass Animals at the O2 Arena

Intertwining indie and alternative pop with electronic music, Glass Animals have a sound that’s all their own. A lot of this is down to songwriter, producer and lead vocalist Dave Bayley who possesses an instantly identifiable voice. Together with his old school friends, the group have carved out an impressive career since forming back in 2010. While they have long had a dedicated core fanbase, their biggest hit Heat Waves catapulted them to new heights upon its release, partly because of its extensive exposure on TikTok. They’re still riding that wave, dropping their fourth studio album back in the summer and embarking on a worldwide tour. Tonight, the UK leg culminates at the O2 Arena.

The atmosphere is reflective of the band: relaxed yet galvanised. This is mirrored by Bayley, who invests a great deal of energy into the show while appearing visibly humbled by the love he receives. The group endured a tumultuous time back in 2018 when drummer Joe Seaward was hit by a lorry while cycling.  The musician had to learn how to talk again. To now see him absolutely smashing it on the drums is a real joy to behold. He is well supported by Edmund Irwin-Singer on bass and keyboards and Drew MacFarlane on guitar. They’re a tight unit, which is no doubt aided by their long-term friendship. Tonight feels like a celebration of their career thus far.

Life Itself from second album How to Be a Human Being kicks things off and by the chorus close to 20,000 are belting out the lyrics. Your Love (Déjà Vu) ups the tempo and has everyone on their feet. We then move to the current album with Wonderful Nothing, which embodies their signature sound. Space Ghost Coast to Coast is another floor filler. We return to the latest material with A Tear in Space (Airlock) and Creatures in Heaven separated by popular track The Other Side of Paradise. Youth is feel-good with its singalong chorus while fan favourite Gooey is a hypnotic highlight of the night. Bayley’s soothing vocals are on point.

It’s a shame more songs from debut album ZABA do not feature, although it must be said that the setlist is fluid and cohesive and guaranteed to please both fans and newcomers alike. Recent single Show Pony is another standout and the moody Take a Slice from the band’s sophomore effort casts a spell over the auditorium. The funk-drenched Pork Soda again exemplifies Bayley’s gift for storytelling over a catchy, infectious beat. It sees the artist interacting with his fans as he moves through the crowd. Unlike previous performances, no pineapples are involved. If you know, you know.

Experts at their craft, Glass Animals are animated while somehow also able to emit laid-back, relaxed vibes. They are truly in their own lane, and it is pleasing that their on-stage presence matches the creative energy they showcase in the studio.

Tokyo Drifting fires up the crowd, despite it being the first of two encore performances. One of the best numbers of the night, it leaves us ready to party rather than think about returning to reality. The evening’s closer is, inevitably, Heat Waves, a well-crafted anthem that still sounds fresh despite its widespread airplay. As with all great shows, we are left wanting more.

Jonathan Marshall
Photos: Mike Garnell

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

Watch the video for the single Show Pony here: