LIVE REVIEW | RAZORLIGHT | BRIXTON ACADEMY, LONDON 21/11/2024 by Charlie Wright

Razorlight’s debut album, released during the indie resurgence, has become a cornerstone in British rock music. The record received critical acclaim for its ability to blend the best of musical influences and continues to garner a fanbase today. After reaching number #3 on the UK Album Charts, the indie outfit followed up with a self-titled record, which stormed the charts at #1, backed by the enormous single In The Morning. However, Razorlight disappeared as fast as they came-up, entering an extended hiatus after their third album in 2008. In the years that followed, their presence was always felt, and the catalogue helped pave the way for a new wave of indie bands.

Formed by Johnny Borrell in 2002, Razorlight in its infancy sat comfortably next to The Libertines, Franz Ferdinand and The Strokes as pioneering artists. Their live performances were electric, and Borrell particularly was known for his dynamic stage presence.

Before you could blink, 20 years have passed. And here we are, celebrating two decades’ worth of Up All Night for one night only at O2 Brixton Academy with the classic lineup. An evening jam-packed with indie hits new and old and a moment to reclaim your youthful spirit in an often harsh modern world.

The evening began with an insightful extended video, uncovering the roots of the band and elaborating on how Up All Night came to life in the Studio. Most of this can be attributed to Borrell’s ‘ritual cocktail’ which included a mixture of heroin, Instant Coffee and Beer. Then, three takes for each track. Elsewhere, mentions of John Kennedy’s first radio play was a beautiful moment to watch as well. While the bulk of the audience was already familiar with the story of Razorlight, there were plenty of newer fans (myself included), who couldn’t catch the band in their early years. This video was a brilliant way to set the scene, and also rile up the room, which was only exacerbated by an enormous countdown afterwards.

When the band launched onto the stage, they were met with roaring applause. From this moment on, everyone knew this was going to be a memorable one. Wasting no time, Razorlight dashed into their debut record, playing through each track in order. Typically, at anniversary shows, the band chops and changes the ordering to maintain pace. It felt particularly unique for Razorlight to confidently retain the original ordering. And, it worked a treat.

Razorlight (Charlie Wright / Northern Exposure)
Razorlight (Charlie Wright / Northern Exposure)
Razorlight (Charlie Wright / Northern Exposure)
Razorlight (Charlie Wright / Northern Exposure)
Razorlight (Charlie Wright / Northern Exposure)

Arguably, the biggest moment came from Golden Touch, which was to be expected. Combining the echoing high ceilings and an extremely ravenous audience provided a sight to behold (and hear) as every word was repeated, without any doubt. As much as the band have avoided being a ‘greatest hits’ band, you can’t ignore how big some of their tracks have become – and these can sometimes overshadow other areas of an otherwise stellar catalogue.

There were few moments of speech throughout the album playthrough, except when the band jokingly dug their heels into the current landscape of live music.

“There’s no click track. Beep boop, beep boop. There’s no laptop. None of that bullsh*t. We are just four lads playing. We play loose. We f**k up. We do whatever the f*ck we like. But, we’ve got you. Thanks for coming out to hear real live music. Every show you go and see should be a unique thing…”

For a band that rose to notoriety through the live scene, it felt somewhat warranted. It also added a swagger to Borrell’s step for the rest of the show and reminded us he’s as fiery as ever.

Another highlight was Somewhere Else, initially a bonus track. The number of full beers that went flying during this chorus must have been the most expensive display of affection ever. Looking around, you’d only see some of the happiest smiles around, almost completely lost in the thrill of it all.

Once the anniversary had come to a close, they returned for an encore. The stage, which had been full of lampshades and a studio design, was decorated with festive lights. From here on out, Razorlight took the opportunity to power through their other punchy hits like In The Morning, Before I Fall To Pieces and America. Additionally, Brixton was treated to a few new tracks from their album Planet Nowhere.

Whether in a club, out-and-about or over your indie playlists, you’ll struggle to escape Razorlight. They have cemented themselves with a timeless and nostalgic sound that’s as infectious as well-crafted. For One Night Only, Razorlight reminded us of their musical prowess and why we’ll always appreciate the part they’ve played; not just with their music, but by influencing the rest.