Declan McKenna takes the beach to Manchester O2 Apollo - Review

Declan McKenna delivered a masterful indie gig, at a sold out Manchester O2 Apollo, last night.

The signer songwriter took to stage, with his accompanying band, to perform over 20 songs - including many of the indie anthems.

Declan McKenna performing at O2 Apollo Manchester - Image by Natasha Judge

By song two, hit 'Brazil' was played with confetti galore, and the crowd remained energetic throughout the evening - with regular 'Oh, Declan McKenna' chants.

The show was apart of the tour in support of Declan's latest album release - 'What Happened to the Beach?', of which you can read Tune's album review here.

Many tracks were played from his new album including groovy number 'Mulholland's Dinner and Wine', which translated well from studio to stage.

Mid-set he addressed the crowd who adoringly cheered. He said: "I'm Declan McKenna, thank you for coming down - nice to meet you too."

The crowd were pleasantly surprised to hear past songs from his ever-growing discography, including 'Rapture', 'Make Me Your Queen' and 'Beautiful Faces'.

Closing the show with the classic track 'British Bombs', the venue erupted with chorus chants of:

"Great way to fool me again hun

Great acting, it's great what you tell em

Great Britain won't stand got felons

Great British bombs in the Yemen."

You could certainly feel the vibrations of the bouncing crowds in the pit, who were showered in red confetti as the beat dropped.

Declan McKenna playing keyboard - Image by Natasha Judge

The staging was future-esque with a series of mountains - of which McKenna climbed as he stood on a keyboard, amongst other energetic, eye catching moments - including jumps, knee slides, and cartwheels.

McKenna's musical ability and performance was certainly prevalent, and it will be no surprise if an arena tour is in his future - as he undoubtedly packs a punch in delivering an outstanding show.

The evening was opened by rock band Wunderhorse - who played a setlist of 90s sounding tunes, including popular track - 'Teal'.

The tour continues with stops in Liverpool, Leicester, Bristol, Wolverhampton, London, Brighton and Bournemouth - and remaining tickets can be found here.

Setlist:

Sympathy

Brazil

You Better Believe!!!

It's an Act

I Write the News

WOBBLE

Breath of Light

Mulholland's Dinner and Wine

The Key to Life on Earth

Rapture

Make Me Your Queen

Mezzanine

Isombard

Beautiful Faces

Why Do You Feel So Down

Nothing Works

The Phantom Buzz (Kick In)

Elevator Hum

Listen to Your Friends

Eventually, Darling

Mystery Planet

British Bombs