On film: DIY’s Class of 2017 launch show

Exactly a month ago, DIY decided to reveal our Class of 2017 with a very special evening. Having whittled down the list of our fave new artists to just seventeen - seventeen for ‘17 and all that! - we figured that the best way to celebrate just how brilliant they all are, was to invite a few of them to perform, and to throw ourselves a big party. That’s exactly what we did.

Taking over the spangly new South London venue Omeara, we offered up a first glimpse at the artists included in our Class of 2017 with a photo exhibition - showing off some of the photography you can see in our latest issue - and invited along our cover star Loyle Carner to perform a brilliant secret spoken word set in the middle of the gallery.

Then, the real fun began. Opening proceedings with BIMM alumni Sea Bed, the crowd were soon suitably warmed up for the visceral onslaught of Abattoir Blues. Showcasing some of their darker, more gut-wrenching offerings, the Brightonians proved why they’re fast becoming such an incendiary live force.

Next up, the incredible Pixx was as enigmatic and brilliant as ever, before headliner Declan McKenna stirred up a frenzy with a set packed full of his ambitious anthems. He even donned a rather lovely gold Santa hat - and who doesn’t love a Santa hat?!

Best of all, you can catch up on exactly what happened right now. We’ve got a video of the whole night below, along with a huge photo gallery of all the antics. So, what’re you waiting for? Get stuck in!

Photos: Carolina Faruolo.
Video: Ben Ogunbiyi / GOBANANAS Films.