Narc. Magazine Online
Reliably informed
Adelle Sutheran enjoys a night of authentic psychedelic folk from the Texan masters
If Sunderland is setting the tone for Midlake’s seven date UK tour, then everyone is in for a good time. Because boy did they absolutely nail it.
They were supported by Joey McCellan’s side quest The Bretheren from Nashville, who provided a complimentary sound and warmed up both the instruments and the crowd.
Midlake’s set can best be described as whimsical and ethereal at times, and a soft psychedelia folk rock delight. The packed auditorium and receptive audience was led on 13 song strong set, which included for this reviewer some of their best tracks – The Ghouls, Roscoe, Days Gone By and Head Home – all nothing short of magic. The somewhat mystical male harmonies, live wistful flute, bassy guitars, stand-alone electric guitar riffs and beating drums added layers, surprises and shifts. It had something for everyone without a doubt, and brought warmth to the otherwise brisk Sunderland evening.
It wasn’t a night of gimmicks, snazzy backdrops, costumes or hurrah. It was honest, authentic and unapologetically Midlake, rich and full. A sound that transcends boundaries and appeals to more than one generation in families.
