Friendly Fires, Brixton Academy

are a joy to watch, from singer Ed MacFarlane’s fantastic leadership to the excellent transition of songs to the live set. Their wonderful sound easily fills the sold-out Brixton Academy, and certainly pleases the crowd, who respond with some heavily frenetic dancing, the best response by the crowd to any of the bands tonight.

Friendly Fires are sandwiched between White Lies and Glasvegas, and tonight they bring a refreshing change to what is otherwise a dull line up, with the exception of opener Florence & The Machine. Their clever syncopation and carnival-esque music shows how Friendly Fires are so unique and have struck a real chord with their audiences throughout the NME Awards Tour. ‘On Board’, with Florence Welch from Florence & The Machine and White Lies’ Harry McVeigh joining them onstage is arguably the highlight of their set, and a great showcase of their sound. The cluttered and busy stage only increases the carnival feel. Ed MacFarlane’s dancing is another impressive aspect of Friendly Fires’ set. From a salsa dance routine to a jerky foot-stomping move, he vividly has numerous tricks up his sleeve.

The New Musical Express may make many mistakes, The Ting Tings for example, but their backing of Friendly Fires is certainly not a mistake. Then again, who can doubt Friendly Fires’ ability? They are an expert pop band, and they have deservedly gained attention for their spectacular well-rounded performances, on record and onstage.