The Old Blue Last takes over Sebright Arms for a series of intimate gigs throughout March.

One of Hackney’s favourite pubs and live music venues Sebright Arms has just re-opened to the public. However, instead of throwing a one-night party, the folk at VICE/the team behind The Old Blue Last aka the new owners decided that this occasion deserves more. Much more. Thus they’re presenting an intimate series of the back-to-back shows, showcasing a few indie favourites alongside hotly-tipped new names across many genres.

Despite a week’s delay caused by some refurbishment issue, we’re finally here. On this fine Thursday night we are graced by performances from Calva Louise, Estrons and the headliners Spring King, who are kind enough to remind everyone that tonight’s show sold out in eight minutes. Well, judging by the looks of the people sporting the band’s merchandise it’s fair to say that there’s clearly a lot of love in the room for this Manchester four-piece.

Intimate shows are always hugely satisfying, all thanks to the tight bond between the crowd and the band. But they’re also very intense sweaty experiences, and tonight is no different. Even singer/drummer Tarek Musa admits “I should do more running, less drinking” just after the second song is served, the fierce soundscape of Detroit. It is also a great opportunity to bring up the talk about entertaining imagery of the music video for the track. If you haven’t seen it, you’re missing out big time.

Spring King released their debut album, Tell Me If You Like To, in June last year, so the fans have had enough time to get acquainted with all the lyrics. The band has toured across the country a few times playing much bigger venues, so tonight undoubtedly feels special.

The singalong chants of It’s So Dark and the massive choruses of Demons follow next as the boisterous crowd bravely takes on the job of moshpiting. “I like what’s going on in the front. More holding each other and jumping around”, we hear from Tarek. Naturally, the fans don’t need any more encouragements as I’m being pushed back and straight into the wall.

“Has anyone been to Manchester? This song is called City but it’s not about Manc. Everyone thinks it’s about football but it’s not”, the drummer continues before the band proceeds with the track. The singer’s chatty nature alongside a strong connection between all band members and the crowd makes the set feel like hanging out with just a bunch of friends.

Sound- and performance-wise they deliver. Four-vocal harmonies are a distinctive element of Spring King‘s music, and are masterfully executed in Mumma and They’re Coming After You as many voices willingly join in for a massive sing-along.

The steady guitars, courtesy of Peter Darlington and Andy Morton, shape a firm base not losing their sharpness throughout the entire set whilst James Green effortlessly excels in swaying bass lines. Of course, the beastly energy of raw but intensifying percussion fills up many tracks, such as Who Are You? or Let’s Ride.

The only moment we actually slow down a bit is when the emotive song Take Me Away hits the ether. Having been written after watching the world’s news as explained, the track leaves a space for a quick reflection on life and a gratitude towards our friends.

Before Spring King dive into the raucous essence of Rectifier they find some time for a quick Happy Birthday song, as there’s always that one person in the room, and another speech from Tarek.

“London, it’s been a pretty good night. And I know it because I feel like I’m gonna be sick, and you make me sick. Recently, a few venues have been closing down, but this is amazing. This is fucking relaunching!”, and on that note Peter and James take their turns as they vanish in a sea of restless bodies, all captured in a giant mosh pit.

Photos: Kasia Osowiecka