Review: British Electronica Trio London Grammar Charm The Independent

London Grammar skillfully showcased a blend of ambient and ethereal yet classical style to a sold out crowd Thursday night at the Independent.

From her first dulcet note, singer-songwriter and lead vocalist Hannah Reid catches plenty of attention. She is supported by guitarist and college friend Dan Rothman and multi-instrumentalist Dominic “Dot” Major, who complete the delicate indie-pop electronica sound.

The band opened with hit single “Hey Now,” captivating the audience with a wispy extended rendition that felt “…frightening…just like lightning.” A rousing performance of “Wasting My Young Years” driven by an eery reminder: “I’ve heard it takes some time to get it right.” They continued with their cover of Kavinsky’s “Nightcall.”

The crowd held a subdued disposition given the few chances to bounce to quicker beats during the brief performance (full set list below). That might change when London Grammar makes its Coachella debut this year. Hannah, simply dressed in white sneakers, an understated blue sweatshirt and black leggings, apologized for only having a few songs having just released the band’s debut studio album If You Wait in September last year.

Should London Grammar return to San Francisco, a larger venue performance could easily further enhance the experience.

Set List
Hey Now
Darling
Interlude
Wasting My Young Years
Fuckers
Sights
Stay Awake
Nightcall
Strong

[Photo courtesy of London Grammar]

Written by Carlos Olin Montalvo

Follow me @carlosolin