FRIDAY night saw The Deaf Institute’s intimate music hall transform into the most fitting venue for the first night of romantic and artistic partnership, LUH’s tour, following the release of their debut album. Quays News entertainment reporter Hollie Rees went along…

With Ebony Hoorn dressed in a simple knee-length dress which had cut-out detail at the waist, and Ellery Roberts donning a lightweight jacket over a white string vest, the duo brought an intense, hour-long set to the sold-out crowd.

 

Blue lights lit the stage from the start as Roberts’ gruff voice delivered the lyrics to the powerful first song, ‘I&I’, which were pleasingly complimented by Hoorn’s slightly softer vocals.

Joined by DJ/multi-instrumentalist, Oliver Cooper, and drummer, Steven Hermitt, the pair dived seamlessly into the next song. Fans sang and moved along as Roberts picked up a guitar and the couple’s vocals proceeded to fill the tiny room.

‘Beneath The Concrete’, taken from their first album, ‘Spiritual Songs for Lovers to Sing’, which was also released on Friday, portrayed real passion as each member of the group appeared to be lost within the lyrics and sounds.

The set continued with the more sombre ‘Future Blues’, which saw Hoorn glide away from providing backing vocals by leading the song with her gentle voice. Accompanied by echoing effects, Hoorn’s voice travelled in waves across the crowd, creating a sense of calm.

Soon picking the atmosphere back up, both Hoorn and Roberts shouted out the lyrics to the next few songs, including ‘$ORO’, and Roberts, in particular, appeared to lock eyes with everyone standing in the crowd.

By flowing from one song straight into another, a trance-like feeling was created and everyone watched in awe as Hoorn and Roberts gave the performance their all with smiles and looks of affection aimed at each other throughout.

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Guitar-heavy track, ‘Lost Under Heaven’, which is what LUH stands for, saw the crowd erupt as Roberts growled the lyrics. Friends jumped around and moved along to the catchy rock song.

Towards the end of the set, Roberts introduced all members of the group and referred to Hoorn as “this fine young lady to my left”. The chemistry between the pair was evident throughout.

LUHBefore bringing the performance to an end with soothing track, ‘Loyalty’, and final track, ‘First Eye to the New Sky’, Roberts called out, “thank you all for coming down, it’s been a pleasure. Manchester is my beloved city”, to which a fan from the crowd shouted, “no, thank you!” Everyone in the audience was left feeling satisfied.

The pair are an intriguing hidden gem with an acquired sound. Even if their unique style isn’t for you, their stage presence and commitment to putting on a satisfying show cannot be faulted.

By Hollie Rees
@holliejrees

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