On Monday the 7th October alt-indie rising stars Sterling Press set out on their biggest headline tour to date. These shows were highly anticipated in the aftermath of their new single “London Girls” and with some awesome support announcements (Emerson, The North, Kid Nowhere, Gravy, Diego) these were set to be unmissable nights of live music.
Over the course of the week, a tour they described as taking their “blood sweat and tears” , the 4-piece hit up some of the most iconic small venues across the country. These included Zerox, Newcastle, The Jacaranda, Liverpool and Oporto in Leeds, where I was lucky enough to catch them in action.
Overall, Sterling press put on an exceptional live show. They looked polished and full of confidence as they played through a set of old favourites and new material. London Girls is a live show’s dream. The new single captured the audience completely, leading to a packed out room of people who just couldn’t possibly stand still, electric. The song is a classic example of what this band do best- strong dance worthy instrumentals and witty songwriting with a nod to the warm feeling of early Brit pop. So well received by the crowd, in fact, they had to play it twice!
Marlon Reynier who alternated between a bass guitar and a keyboard bass note generator (but I would pitch him as full-time audience hype man) grooved and danced along with the avid front row fans. He delivered punchy vocals over their signature heavy reverb guitars and drums, played by Ed Higgins (guitar and vocals), Greg Smith (guitar) and Lucien Ismael (drums.)
Marlon sported one of the iconic spray paint “I heart NY” t-shirts which the band could be seen making up for fans after the show was over. Speaking to some young fans they explained they had travelled 4 hours by coach to come and watch the band play in Leeds. A tale of loyalty which I’m sure will become only too common for such a personable group of guys and addicting live show.
Sterling press are a must see for any fan of alternative indie music. Speaking on their Instagram the band says: “This is just the beginning. Another one soon?” If the atmosphere in the room is anything to go by, I would say most of that crowd will be back for more. It will be exciting to see what the London/ Liverpool boys get up to next. Maybe one day they’ll make it to New York?
ALL PHOTOS BY: @maeve_w_photo
FOLLOW STERLING PRESS ON INSTAGRAM
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