The Lumineers at Hammersmith Apollo

Hailing from Denver, Colorado, the Lumineers warmed London up with their folksy, country sound. Although they only have two albums out, including Cleopatra which was released earlier this year, they have already been nominated for several Billboard Music and Grammy Awards.

Opening up the much-anticipated night with Sleep On the Floor, the first track off their recent album, there was no doubt that the Lumineers would make this night a memorable one. As soon as the distinctive build up of drums, keyboard and vocals came in to start off Ophelia, the crowd was in a frenzy, belting out every word, leaving lead vocalist and guitarist, Wesley Schultz speechless, only two numbers into the show.

Stomping, cowboy hats and the twanging of the banjo: the hall resonated with Americana country vibes. Following up with Flowers in Your Hair, from their 2012 self-titled album, much to the audience’s surprise, Wesley asked that after their next, and perhaps most awaited song, everybody should put their phones away and just enjoy the music. Accepting the deal and thrilled to hear the famous chanting of Ho Hey come on, the Apollo filled with harmonious singing and attempted hoedown dancing.

After feel-good tune Cleopatra, the three-piece and their band took their places at the front of the stage and performed Dead Sea without any microphones, attempting to recreate the scene of how they started – playing acoustic sets in people’s living rooms. The venue hushed to a beautiful silence, sending chills through the awe-struck crowd. Continuing the theme of simplicity, the Lumineers performed a stripped-down rendition of Charlie Boy as a three.

After masterfully covering Bob Dylan’s Subterranean Homesick Blues, the folk-rockers dove back into a more upbeat track, Submarines. The Hammersmith Apollo became more invested with every tune, as the clapping got louder and the singing more heartfelt. Sweeping away the hearts of every audience member, Wesley performed Gun Song, a tribute to his late father, followed by fan-favourite Angela. His husky yet angelic voice sent vibrations through every corner of the icnoic venue as he walked through a sea of avid fans.

Following the ear-deafening cheers from eager fans, Wesley returned to the stage with his guitar, serenading the tonight’s public with Long Way from Home, another touching tribute. Amidst confetti and a roomful of dedicated fans belting out every word, the Lumineers finished off the night with Stubborn Love. The folk-rock group’s passion for music, together with the attentiveness and dynamism of the audience, made for a heart-warming and momentous atmosphere.

Naomi Schanen
Photos: Matthew Pull

For further information about The Lumineers and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Ophelia here: