Editors at Brixton Academy

Surrounded by a thick mist flashing with strobe lights, Tom Smith looks possessed as he sings “it breaks my heart to love you” from opener Sugar.

The second song, Someone Says – off their 2005 debut The Back Room – is already shaking the crowd. Some singers aren’t fully convincing in their performance, but Smith looks authentically and spiritually moved. His simple, body-hugging clothes make him appear like a silhouette, enhancing the atmosphere for every single tune.

With fan-favourites Smokers Outsider the Hospital Doors and Bones, the Brixton Academy is already in awe of the Birmingham indie-rockers. The band plays a balanced setlist, focusing on their best and most appreciated songs rather than concentrating on their last record The Weight of Your Love.

You know when an act comes up with a totally awesome single that, when played live, brings down the house? That’s what Editors do with A Ton a Love: a very solid song on record, the track is simply amazing live.

The great sophistication of In This Light and on This Evening has survived the departure of former guitarist and synth player Chris Urbanowicz, the sound genius of the band. While nearly as good as with Chris, however, the band’s music is clearly no longer quite at that level. That’s the only negative side of this tour: the lack of the main architect of the group’s sound. It must be said though, that new guitarist Justin Lockey does a great job making the audience forget that the line-up has changed (with two new members necessary to replace the departed one).

It’s difficult to establish when the peak of the performance is – Munich, the pumped-up version of Nothing or Papillon? One thing is certain, Editors know how to put on a memorable concert.

Filippo L’Astorina, the Editor
Photos: Rita Vicinanza

For further information about Editors and future events visit here.

Watch the video for A Ton of Love here: