Pale Waves
It’s been 7 years since Pale Waves first debuted, and even with all that time passed they’ve still maintained a fervent following releasing their 4th studio album “Smitten”. They kicked off their latest tour packing out the Norwich Waterfront, with a surprisingly diverse fanbase of all ages and genders.
Opening the night was Scottish group Swim School. This is their 3rd visit to Norwich having recently headlined the Waterfront Studio and given the enthusiastic reception I’m certain they’ll be back. Alice Johnson commanded the stage with her edgy rock-chick style and charisma. With her belting vocals she was reminiscent of pop rock superstar Taylor Momsom from The Pretty Reckless. Their synth tinged 80s punk pop style felt comparable to the headline act, and they joked of previously being referred to as a “shit version of Pale Waves” (a statement that’s extremely untrue) so it felt full circle to be supporting their tour. With vibrant guitar riffs and fiery verses, they’re certainly a group to look out for over the coming year.
Following a varied pre-show playlist with everyone from Madonna, to Maggie Rogers, Chappell Roan and The 1975 that warmed fans vocal cords, Pale Waves took to the stage. With extravagant chandeliers and a stone bust statue they had an almost arena level presence that immediately heightened the atmosphere. Opening with The Cure esq single “Perfume”, the band looked as if they were performing an early 90s MTV live special bathed in bright coloured lighting and Heather in her signature retro gothic makeup.
It didn’t take long for them to bring out classic hits like “There’s a Honey” resulting in the whole room jumping along in glee. The band performed with a tangible confidence emanating pure euphoria in every cord.
Deep cut “Drive” made an appearance for the first time since 2019 leading to a flurry of cheers in glee. The sparkling synths flickered through the room sounding straight out of an 80s rom com.
The stylistic drive for the entire set was pure unfiltered nostalgia, particularly from the enigmatic guitars that they are so known and loved for. Heather's distinctive vocals held up strong in a live setting, engrossing the crowd in every song. “Television Romance” and fan choice of the set “Red” particularly painted distinctive dreamlike sonic imagery that excelled in a live setting.
Before playing “She’s My Religion”, Heather made a poignant tribute to the LGBT community that she wrote her music for. It was incredibly moving to witness songs about women loving women performed to and appreciated by a packed out crowd, and it’s phenomenal representation that the industry desperately needs more of.
Returning for the encore the band treated the crowd to a climactic finale with the thrashing rock banger “Jealousy”.
Some might argue Pale Waves music is formulaic and repetitive. But I believe they have nailed a distinctive musical style that is truly built to be appreciated in a live setting. Particularly in intimate venues like The Waterfront. Long may they continue to woo over crowds for years to come.
