Wolf Alice's homecoming show at Finsbury Park was a testament to their journey from scrappy newcomers to one of the UK's best young rock bands. The band's emotional performance highlighted their growth and versatility, captivating a crowd of 45,000. As they played 'Bros', a song about friendship, old clips flashed up on the video screens, showcasing their humble beginnings. This moment was a powerful reminder of their evolution and the impact of their music.
The band's set list, largely the same as their recent festival shows, featured a mix of anthems and deeper cuts. From the funky 'Bloom Baby Bloom' to the rock freak-out 'White Horses', Wolf Alice showcased their musical range. 'Formidable Cool' had Rowsell prowling the catwalk, embodying the spirit of glam rock. The band's recent major label deal with Sony has brought a touch of stadium-level stagecraft, with confetti and an honorary fifth member, Ryan Malcolm, adding to the spectacle.
The show's energy was infectious, with the band members feeding off each other's enthusiasm. Joel Amey's hammy accent during 'The Sofa' and Theo Ellis' air-punching during 'Yuk Foo' added a layer of humor and intensity. The band's ability to switch from soft, folky ballads like 'White Leather' to anthemic hits like 'Lipstick on the Glass' demonstrated their emotional depth and musical prowess.
The highlight of the show was the band's hometown pride, with Ellie Rowsell's heartfelt speech and the crowd's response to 'Giant Peach'. The song's lyrics about London and the band's love affair with the city resonated with the audience. The encore, featuring 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' and 'Moaning Lisa Smile', was a thrilling conclusion to a triumphant performance.
Wolf Alice's success is well-deserved, with their second number one album and best British group win at the Brit Awards. Their US breakthrough is on the horizon, with a major step up in September supporting Olivia Rodrigo. As Ellie Rowsell noted, 'The time is now', and Wolf Alice is ready to take the world by storm.
