Seafret at The Islington

Fresh off the back of their debut EP Give Me Something, acoustic duo Seafret sell out their first London headline show at The Islington.

After recently breaking onto the Radio One BBC Introducing playlist, the little-known Bridlington band arrive full steam ahead. The room is in full voice, appearing to be in great anticipation for the night’s entertainment, in wonder of what’s to come. “Does anyone know what we’re called then?” asks vocalist Jack Sedman, who quickly retorts “No, not sea bass!” to the laughter of the crowd.

The noisy audience, a real mix of people, is quickly hushed to silence as the soulful tones of Overtime are wailed across the room. Love found and love lost are constant themes of the night, but nowhere more so than in To the Sea, a reflective and introspective song, plucked through the sombre tones of Harry Draper on the bass guitar and laced by Sedman’s groaning vocals.

The crowd is attentive and generous in their applause, and the fresh-faced, hungry duo are clearly humbled and appreciative of the reception. As the halfway point of the set approaches, the crowd is deeply engaged and hopeful of an equally impressive second half. They roar as Sedman tells us the next song is Give Me Something, the first release from their EP. It promised a huge climax but was a little disappointing, the self-pitying sorrowful tone overwhelming. The last four songs are highlighted by the upbeat and energetic Skimming Stone, a sound of promise and hope, displaying the band’s impressive but neglected versatility.

Sedman’s vocals are powerful and emotive, capable of bringing every note and word into its clearest existence, which is complemented by the equally brilliant guitar playing by Draper. The crowd were happy and joyous throughout, receiving every performance with more vigour than the last, but overall the same old subject matter became tiresome. Flashes of brilliance were frustrating as they quickly came and went, though the great talent and potential of Seafret is undeniable. 

                                                                                                                                                Shelby Gilfillian
Photos: Rosie Yang

For further information about Seafret and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Give Me Something here: