Florence And The Machines
Despite the heaviest snowfall to hit Britain in two decades, a healthy crowd has already gathered for Florence and The Machine. Traditionally the first act on The NME Shockwaves Tour harbours promise in abundance and tonight is no different. With their stage decorated in gala flower displays and a harpsichord their set heralds a bygone age when indie seemed hopelessly futuristic. Yet despite the stage props there is really only one star on display. Dressed like a debauched Red Riding Hood, Florence leaps across the stage with heady abandon. With the band’s pre-requisite to entertain, Florence sets about inciting an orgy of love and violence to precede 'Kiss With A Fist'. Whilst such a request fails to deliver, the crowd does seem duly engaged.
Though Florence’s voice and character tends to dominate the stage she has ample backing from The Machine. Drums reverberate against the walls, occasionally punctuated by piano keys or the faint pluck of a harp string. Arguably theirs is the auspicious crossover sound of rockabilly with folk. For closer 'Dog Days Are Over', Florence’s smouldering, almost operatic, voice takes over; shaping each syllable into a flowing cacophony. Therein lies the problem, whilst the dramatics are present their repertoire lacks any real substance.