Midlake LIVE @ Islington Assembly Hall

Islington Assembly Hall plays host to the American Rock/Folk collective, Midlake this evening.Coming off the back of a turbulent few years which saw the lead singer, Tim Smith quit the band after animosity ensued due to his perfectionism, the band are once again at the helm ready to steer their way through the release of another studio album.

To promote and celebrate the occasion, Midlake have found themselves this side of the Atlantic playing the charismatic, charming and beautiful Islington Assembly Hall. This ornate 1930s dancehall has seen many acts pass through its historic doors recently as it looks to cements itself as a top notch London gig venue.

As Midlake take to the stage, minus Tim Smith, they begin to pluck and play their way through a set packed with retrospective and fresh material. The air seems to be slightly calmer, softer and more upbeat without the aforementioned Tim Smith heading the band. The newly crowned frontman, Eric Pulido has a slight nervous demeanour in between songs however does not let this stop him interacting with the crowd and ensures manners do not slip with a smile and a thank you.

As the band showcase new, lighter, songs with good sing-a-longs and hooky choruses it is obvious there is life after Tim Smith for this band and a new chapter has started.