Brand New, Alexandra Palace, London

“When we’re around each other, it’s kind of like family,” states Brand New’s Jesse Lacey, reflecting on their return to the UK in front of an almost-sold out Alexandra Palace. He lists “The Xcerts, Dinosaur Pile-Up, Basement” among those who make their trips to these shores so homely, it’s another touching moment from the iconic and introverted frontman.

The latter of his list open up proceedings tonight, their short-lived hiatus almost a distant memory. Basement may have leapt several steps upon their return from said break, but they prove their standing in seconds as they tear into ‘Whole’. Every bit as vital as they ever were and prompting a pocket of madness at the crowd’s front from the off, the Ipswich emos are nonetheless still clearly humbled by the opportunity to support their heroes.

As Lacey then takes to the stage solo to open with ‘Soco Amaretto Lime’, it’s spine tingling, near ten thousand voices screaming back every line and ensuring that the navel-gazing anthem is anything but a muted start.

In stark contrast to their opener, though, it quickly becomes clear that Alexandra Palace’s huge expanse does no favours to the sonic rollercoaster of a Brand New set. Punchier moments break through - the galloping intros to ‘The Archers’ Bows Have Broken’ and new single ‘Mene’ bookend things in style - but their more delicate touches are lost amongst Ally Pally’s cavernous, echoing hall.

It’s a career-spanning setlist, which touches on everything from snotty teenage ode-to-an-ex ‘Mix Tape’ right through to ‘Sealed To Me’, one of the few hints we’re granted at a potential new record, but it’s one that relies on a deftness of touch that Alexandra Palace simply can’t provide.