Future Islands – O2 Glasgow 2nd April
The buzz around the O2 academy was easy to feel. The crowd was cheery and chatty, most of the attendees willing to strike up conversation if you caught their glance. This was the symbolic feel-good energy of a Future Islands gig. It began even with their choice of support, the forever wholesome Dan Deacon was excellent in delivering his message of unity – one seemingly shared with the main act.
As the lights dropped the crowd froze, everyone turning to the stage as Samuel Herring spoke in silhouette and was joined by his fellow band members, Gerrit Welmers, William Cashion and Michael Lowry. The gentle ballet like accompaniment of his opening words was one of many ties to his artistic repertoire. Everything about this moment told the audience that we weren’t just at a concert but were receiving a cultural experience. The crowds had just entered the theatre of Future Islands.
With the crowd poised, hanging on his every word Sam told us what they had in store, an opening performance of For Sure. Skipping around the stage he swung his fist into the air, beat his chest, imploring us all to join him. Every thrust of his hand was a challenge, a shepherding of the audience to get up and dance, to join in the show.
The lights and music dropped instantly at the end of the first track, met instantly by cheers from the crowd. So as Hit the Coast began to play party montage started. Everywhere people wrapped their arms around each other and swayed as if it was the last song of the night, and it had barely begun. Such is the unifying magic of Future Islands carefully crafted lyrics and mellow bobbing pop. Throughout the night the message was repeated, of togetherness. Sam and Co. brought us onwards onto Beauty of the Road, King of Sweden, On the water, Plastic Beach, Peach, Waking, Walking Through The Door and then Balance.
Sam has often spoke about his love for live theatre, has stated that he thrives of the reaction of people. ‘Kicked out of art school’ he has routinely reminded fans. Dancing to his every move, rising and falling with every instruction from the stage, this was performance piece. From the tangled writhing dance floor, it felt as if the crowd were as much part of the art as the lights or music. His jumping and ‘acting’ got made sure the crowd were engaged and following every move of his performance. He danced to Light House, Before the Bridge, A Dream of You and Me, Moonlight, Aladdin and Ancient Water.
Sam’s dancing stood in high contrast to his other band members – who just stood like statues behind him. The contrast was very stark on the bright purple lit stage. They were like guards looking down at him, protecting him, allowing him to reach for his inner child within. He belted out their big song, Seasons (Waiting on You), followed by Long Flight and Tin Man.
They go off the stage, leaving everyone in anticipation for their return for an encore. Surely the show hasn’t finished yet? No, they bring out 3 songs for the audience: Tin Man, Thrill and Vireo’s Eye to finish.
After every song, Sam thanks the audience for being with them. Reminded us to be kind to each other. And showed us with music how beautiful the world can be. Future Islands are a fascinating act, and with an amazing stage presence and a loyal fan base, a concert to remember.
Photographs and Review by Caroline Ring
