Ever since I first heard Flyte's music last summer, I've obsessed over the idea of seeing them play live. A modern day indie quartet, I have always thought that the music they create on record sounds like it would translate perfectly in a live environment, and it's safe to say I wasn't wrong. Performing to a sold-out London crowd, the simmering energy from the crowd pre-gig was wonderfully matched by the band as soon as they stepped on stage.
Opening with the charming "Over And Out", the band's live flair made each and every member (Will Taylor, Nick Hill, Jon Supran and Sam Berridge) look effortlessly at home on stage. Full of confidence and energy, the band's pitch perfect performance commendably started at the very first beat of "Over And Out" and extended throughout the set, until the very last note of their encore.
Displaying unheard content too, "Feels Like Home", a sprightly number with an electrifying piano and groovy bass-line quickly followed. As with all the band's songs, lead vocalist Will Taylor's smooth, retro croon is staggeringly impressive to witness. His phenomenal range and exquisite, rich tone is infectious and inspiring to both crowd and band members alike. Supporting his voice at every turn, the three remaining member's backing vocals complement his voice perfectly, with their complex, faultless vocal harmonies creating countless spine-tingling moments throughout the entire performance.
Sharing polite and humbling words between tracks, we were soon greeted with the damp yet chirpy "We Are The Rain" and the affable "Chasing Heaven" before one of the biggest cheers of the night roars as most recent single "Light Me Up" kicks into action. Triumphant, 80's inspired indie-pop, "Light Me Up" is as the title suggests, a truly uplifting experience. With a catchy, anthemic chorus, this track will undoubtedly be a highlight within their live set for years to come.
Lowering the tempo slightly, "Harley Street" is a chilled, melodic number that allows the crowd a chance to collect themselves before previously unheard track "The Great Escape" draws proceedings to a close. Although the main gig was fantastic, the real highlight of the night occurs in the one song finale, as we're treated to a stunning rendition of fan-favourite "Faithless".
Although "Faithless" is yet to enjoy a full release (hence the home-video style live performance above), it is undoubtedly Flyte's pièce de résistance. Musically, lyrically and vocally perfect, "Faithless" is a track many great artists will envy not writing themselves. With its gorgeous harmonisation and emotional delivery, it was a faultless close to a vastly impressive performance.
Leaving the gig with a glowing smile on my face, I'm left assured that Flyte are unquestionably one of the best new bands around.
Stay up to date.
New music and exclusive updates in your inbox weekly.
Mugs, t-shirts,
hoodies, vinyls & more.
