At Islington Assembly Hall, the support act's typical struggle to get a full audience was refreshingly absent. Just 15 minutes after the doors opened at 7pm, Grace Petrie took the stage to a near-capacity crowd, setting the tone for a night of vibrant music and passionate performances.
Grace began the evening by introducing the first of three support acts, folk duo Amy Thatcher and Francesca Knowles. Their mix of accordion melodies and experimental synths captivated the audience, while Grace herself didn't shy away from addressing the importance of giving due attention to support acts, likening distracted audience members to political apathy.
Throughout the night, each act delivered standout performances, with solo artist Gabi Garbutt and poet Molly Naylor proving equally impressive. Grace's words of encouragement and support for emerging artists resonated deeply, creating an atmosphere of unity and appreciation within the venue.
When Grace returned to the stage with her six-piece band, including Thatcher and Knowles, the energy in the room was palpable. Opening with “The Best Country in the World” from her latest album, Build something betterGrace's lyrics addressing environmental concerns and political disillusionment struck a chord with the audience.
As the night progressed, Grace's set delved into topics ranging from the music industry to LGBTQIA+ experiences, showcasing her versatility as a performer and songwriter. While the newer tracks from her collaboration with Frank Turner were met with enthusiasm, they were older favorites like “Black Tie” from her 2018 album. Queer as folk which ignited the crowd with fervor.
All in all, Grace Petrie delivered an intimate and electrifying performance at the grassroots venue, championing her own music and fostering the talent of emerging artists. With a mix of passion, sincerity and musical prowess, Grace left an indelible mark on the audience, ensuring an unforgettable night for all in attendance.
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