Wolf Alice, the celebrated British indie band, have undergone a spectacular glam-rock transformation, showcasing their most fun and complete reinvention to date during a powerful performance at Manchester Arena.
A Dazzling New Era
Frontwoman Ellie Rowsell commanded the stage in a striking black leotard adorned with red hearts, a far cry from her earlier folk-inspired aesthetic. Her declaration, "If I want to wear my sparkly knickers, I will!" during the stylish 70s slow-burner 'The Sofa', set the tone for a night of confident, guilt-free performance. This new look channels a PJ Harvey-esque energy on a glam-rock bender, marking a significant departure from her previously tousled blonde image.
The band's evolution is nothing new. Formed over 15 years ago as a north London folk duo featuring Rowsell and guitarist Joff Oddie, Wolf Alice has consistently shed its skin, growing into a fully-fledged four-piece. Their journey has spanned the grunge snarls of their debut 'My Love Is Cool' to the 90s alt-fuzz of their Mercury Prize-winning album 'Visions of a Life'. Yet, this current tour, supporting their latest work, presents what may be their most cohesive and thrilling incarnation yet.
Seventies Sparkle and Sonic Power
The 70s influence was palpable throughout the set. From a tinselly backdrop to Rowsell wielding her Gibson SG for speedy Hawkwind and Black Sabbath-inspired chugs, the references were clear and deliberate. The show opened dramatically with the crooning ballad 'Thorns', the band members connected by draped tinsel tassels, before erupting into the tom-heavy, bouncy energy of 'Bloom Baby Bloom'.
Drummer Joel Amey was a particular standout, taking lead vocals on 'White Horses' and driving the performance with a slightly proggy, krautrock-inflected surge on the hi-hats. The band's versatility was further highlighted during a moment where they chanted "Let the branches wrap their arms around me," plucking acoustic guitars in a pagan seance-like segment reminiscent of the Incredible String Band.
A Vocal Powerhouse and Lasting Ambition
Amidst the genre-hopping, which could at times be a challenging journey for the audience, the most consistent and impressive element was Ellie Rowsell's formidable vocal performance. Her voice has only grown stronger with each album iteration, and throughout the arena set, she did not falter once, proving herself on par with the glam gods she now evokes.
A poignant moment occurred when Rowsell addressed the crowd, stating, "This phone thing makes me cry," as fans lit up the arena with iPhone torches. It underscored a puzzling reality: despite a packed arena and critical acclaim, wider mainstream fame or a number one hit has so far eluded them. However, with their recent move to a new major label, that could soon change. As the band themselves have noted, while their peers have come and gone, Wolf Alice are still here, and on this evidence, they are shining brighter than ever.
The band continues their UK tour until 8th December, offering more opportunities for fans to witness this electrifying new chapter.
