Photo Credit: Raven Graham / Words: Eve Smith
Stepping out onto the stage to play their lead single, “Union Station,” from their debut album, “Elsewhere, Always,” Overpass continue to deliver outstanding live performances, proving time and time again, why they are a band worth keeping an eye on.
From hearing them play the new album intimately in anticipation for its release – hearing it with a full set-up was more than imaginable. “Elsewhere, Always,” marked a defining moment for the band, after years of steadily building momentum through their live shows, and the Birmingham four-piece delivered a show that captures their signature anthemic rhythm, as well as diving into a deeper, more vulnerable sound.
Opening with “Union Station,” the band and crowd together burst into tune, as the song blended a nostalgic mix of youthful aspiration against the world’s relentless pace. And one of the most impressive things about Overpass is their ability to create a genuine connection with the crowd – which they did immediately. They don’t stand on stage and play a setlist; they bring personality, and an incredible amount of enthusiasm to every performance. Everything feels perfectly put together, without losing the raw emotions that makes live performances so thrilling.
And the thrilling atmosphere continued as they dove into songs from the new album, such as “Sandman,” and “I Will,” which all had a real sense of musical depth, as the vocals were strong, with perfect instrumentation. The transition between songs also flowed naturally, keeping the momentum within the crowd going and ensuring there was never a dull moment.
But what stood out most, was the bands stage presence, with a performance that felt bigger than the venue itself. It was an immersive experience, from the band’s infectious confidence and energy, as they entertained the crowd with exactly what they were asking for – the show-stopping cover of Harry Style’s “American Girls,” which embarked on a journey showing a new, and deeply emotional side from the band, as they took their own raw, and vulnerable twist on the song.
As they continued with a blend of new and older songs throughout the show, their trademark energetic guitar work blended with the strong vocals from frontman Max Newbold made a statement of exactly who the band were now, and how much they had grown since the intimate performances.
And the electric atmosphere continued as they closed the show with the raw tenderness of “Fall In Love,” before a final statement piece of “Take It Or Leave It,” and “Is this real?” which highlighted a band that could blend tenderness with energy, and their ability to be able to do it all.
And this is just the beginning. As the “Elsewhere, Always,” tour continues next Spring: bigger venues, bigger crowds, and bigger energy. Overpass have done it all, displaying their trademark sound and evocative lyricism, while also connecting emotionally with the audience. They are intimate yet explosive, and they are no longer simply a promising indie band to watch out for, but something bigger; as they become one of the most exciting acts in the UK music scene.
Photo Credit: Raven Graham
