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Dalaro: O2 Academy 2 - 11/6/15

Kicking off Thursday night at the O2 (2) was the larger than life pop diva Cortney Dixon - a woman armed with big hair and an even bigger voice.  Her music channels the iconic sound of 80's pop, whilst drawing parallels with the likes of Marina and the Diamonds, Paloma Faith and Florence Welch. The strongest part of her set was her original song 'Freddie'. Dixon captivated the audience with her enchanting vocals, creating a blissful ambience. This was intensified by the profound sentiment and apparent emotion that fuelled the ballad.
It's obvious that this woman is incredibly talented and knows how to belt out a tune. However I feel as though she'd really come into her element if she fronted a band. She has the charisma, style and technical flair to bring something really special to a rock group.
Next up was Tom Conway, a band fronted by (no prizes for guessing) -  Tom Conway. Despite the disappointing name, these lads produce a great sound. The only way I can think to describe it is garage rock with 90's vibes with indie vocals with a Placebo-'esque' undertone. Their music is explosive, full bodied and dynamic. Occasionally their singer looked a little uneasy on stage, (especially compared to the relentless energy of their bass and guitar players) but their actual playing is fantastic. It's fuelled by heavy guitar and catchy riffs that'll get crowds pumped up and dancing and got the crowd moving after the delicate sincerity of Dixon's set.
The final support act of the night was Cohesion. The native Sunderland boys a full and rich sound through their powerful guitar riffs and alluring bass lines. Such riffs were beautifully coupled by the belting and soulful vocals, creating a buzzing atmosphere. Their songs were the perfect balance of mellow, cheerful indie and huge anthem worthy choruses and clever lyrics. Their performance was seamless and an utter pleasure to experience.
It's a shame the headline wasn't anywhere near as good as their support.
I was really disappointed with Dalaro. To say their performance was lacklustre, would be an understatement. I've seen these lads perform before and they were amazing. They exuberated this relentless energy that made their set so exciting and it's normally such good fun dancing along to the group.
Their music still had infectiously catchy riffs, gorgeous bass lines and vivacious drums - the elements that I know and love! Those parts were fantastic and I cant flaw them.  The bass lines drove the song allowing the peppy synth and guitar to concoct numerous great dance tracks. The whole room bopped and sang along.Their songs aren't masterpieces but they are catalysts for a carefree dance vibe. These songs aren't going to change your life but they'll be great on your playlist for getting the party started or will perk you up when you're feeling down. Dalaro are the band I put on when I want some happy, easy listening.
Unfortunately, their singer was incredibly disappointing. He looked bored titless, as though he really couldn't be arsed to be there. I have never seen anyone look that awkward or uncomfortable on stage. This nonchalant manner was worsened by the fact that the guitarist and bass player were so pumped up and looked like they were having the time of their lives.
What was really odd however, was when he stepped away from the mic, he was great. It was as though the mic was draining the joy out of him. When he was just playing guitar he was the high energy front man this 'happy-go-lucky' indie band needs. It's obvious that this guy is a guitarist that has a decent voice and his heart belongs to his six stringed baby.
Perhaps he was just having an off night. The overall performance was still good, it just felt as though their batteries were running a little flat.


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