Sleep Token at Utilita Arena Birmingham – 28th November 2024
Bilmuri were the opening act for Sleep Token tonight. The role of a support act is to electrify the audience and introduce them to fresh talent they’ll be raving about long after the show ends tonight Bilmuri delivered in spades.
Fronted by former Attack Attack vocalist Johnny Franck, Bilmuri has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, and the set was a showcase of his signature country-tinged pop punk, with tracks from the latest album, _American Motor Sports,_ taking center stage. Flanked by a powerhouse live ensemble featuring a guitarist, drummer, and a show-stealing saxophonist, each member commanded the spotlight, seamlessly pulling the audience into their dynamic world.
While their vibe stood in stark contrast to the headliners, Bilmuri shared one key quality: the ability to captivate. Their infectious energy, peppered with humour and humility, won the crowd over by the minute. By the time they return to the city next year, expect a sea of familiar faces, newly converted fans from this unforgettable performance. Formed in 2016, Sleep Token’s ascent has been nothing short of meteoric, culminating in a UK and EU arena tour and a coveted headline slot at next year’s Download Festival.
Known for their enigmatic image and theatrical stage presence, the band wasted no time making an unforgettable impression the moment they stepped onto the stage. With backing vocalists, towering elevating platforms, and a light show that could rival a city skyline, it was clear the production had been dialled-up to match the arena-sized ambition.
But the real magic lay in the sound: a breathtaking blend of atmospheric post-rock serenity, thunderous breakdowns, and lead vocalist Vessel’s mesmerizingly smooth tones. Taking a cue from some of music’s biggest acts (looking at you, Taylor Swift),
Sleep Token split the night into three chapters, each dedicated to one of their albums in chronological order. Spoken word interludes about life, death, and everything in between tied the segments together, adding layers of drama to an already captivating experience. The crowd’s devotion was palpable, a testament to the deep connection the band has fostered with their fans. While the music’s introspective nature didn’t leave much room for traditional crowd interaction, it’ll be interesting to see how this immersive, almost sacred atmosphere translates to the larger festival stages next summer.
Review: Dan Earl
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