After bouncy pop-rock openers WITTERQUICKÔÇÖs cover of ÔÇÿWrecking BallÔÇÖ that went down surprisingly well with the crowd, and an aggressive set from Merthyr teen rockers Pretty Vicious that was somewhat impaired by technical issues, Nothing But Thieves hit the stage for the Cardiff leg of their sold out UK tour.

Just a fortnight after the release of their self-titled debut album, the crowd were up to date on all the newest songs played as well as older favourites. Despite vocalist Connor being ill (enough so that the band had to cancel the next couple of shows after Cardiff), he did a fantastic job of carrying the intricate falsettos that are a staple of the bandÔÇÖs sound. The enthusiasm from the crowd and the rest of the band meant that when ConnorÔÇÖs vocals did falter, it barely detracted from the music. Holding the mic out to the audience and having them chant back was something the band clearly found humbling as well as exciting, with Connor repeatedly thanking the crowd for their support despite his illness.

Highlights of the set included ÔÇÿGraveyard WhistlingÔÇÖ, arranged slightly differently for the live show, and bringing even more atmosphere to one of the strongest songs on the album. ÔÇÿTrip SwitchÔÇÖ was clearly a fan favourite with its seductive guitar licks, and the encore closed with single ÔÇÿBan All The MusicÔÇÖ, which had everyone dancing as expected.

The fact that Nothing But Thieves can pull off such a successful show even when their lead singer has almost lost his voice is testament to this bandÔÇÖs talent and dedication. Anyone who missed getting tickets to this sold out tour should rest easy knowing theyÔÇÖre on the road again next April, and this is definitely not a band to be missed twice.

GRACE HATHAWAY