South Arcade deliver an electrifying performance at Manchester Academy
The sold-out crowd buzzes with anticipation as South Arcade takes the stage. It’s a hint of the reaction which will follow through the set – cheering, jumping, hands in the air all come in to play.
South Arcade immediately launch into 2005, setting an energetic tone for the night. Harmony Cavelle’s vocals remain impeccable throughout the performance. The band maintains an almost relentless pace and energy for the duration of the set.
For one night only, they have rebranded as “North Arcade,” acknowledging their Manchester crowd before heading south for a London gig. At various points Harmony whips the crowd up more – challenging them to outshine their southern rivals. The crowd naturally response, lapping up what is developing in to a great gig.
The set is understandably built around South Arcade’s debut EP 2005, with all the tracks from that release making in to the setlist. But that doesn’t stop Southern Arcade (well, Northern Arcade) delving in to their back catalogue blending Sound Of An Empty Room and Bigger Than Anything Ever seamlessly with the newer material.
Danger stands out, featuring thundering drums that resonate through the venue. Mid-set, South Arcade surprises fans with a cover of Justin Timberlake’s Sexy Back. Harmony Cavelle introduces it as a ‘curveball’ and the first ‘nu-metal cover’ of the track. The crowd enthusiastically waves foam hands, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Just hours before its official release, they perform Supermodels. The audience responds with fervour, jumping and singing along. Harmony’s energy and enthusiasm remain palpable, as she constantly moves across the stage. She describes the experience as a ‘humbling and wholesome moment’ seeing everybody turn up to see them headline.
Riptide offers a beautiful contrast with its sparse opening featuring just keys. As the band joins in, the track builds intensity while maintaining its emotional depth. The track, and in particular the opening, provide a moment of respite from the full on energy which has been on show throughout. “It’s time to see those glowsticks” Harmony gleefully declares.
The lighting design enhances the performance, building urgency and, at times, even a sci-fi ambiance. Shadow effects add to the intense feeling, while strobes and pulses amplify the energy.
The set culminates with Stone Cold Summer, prompting a huge cheer as the entire room bounces, cheers, and sings back.
South Arcade have delivered a high-energy, full-on performance and in the battle of North vs South, they’ll have to go some to outdo this set.
