Canadian indie-folk four-piece, Half Moon Run, set to the stage for the second time in Manchester’s finest music venue, The Albert Hall. Half Moon Run were the first band to re-open the hall in 2013.
The band formed in 2010 and consist of; Devon Portielje (Vocals, guitar and percussion) Dylan Phillips (Vocals, drums & keyboard) Conner Molander (Vocals guitar & keyboard) and Isaac Symonds (Vocals, percussions, Mandolin, keyboard & guitar) Following the successful their debut album, ‘Dark Eyes’ the band are currently embarking on a tour of the UK promoting second album ‘Sun Leans Me On’
The stage is filled with smoke for the bands entry. Starting out with new album opener ‘Warmest Regards’ followed by ‘Turn Your Love’ and then slightly livelier ‘I Can’t Figure Out What’s Going On’
Portielje greets the crowd “Manchester! Good to be back”.
Forth Track ‘Nerve’ is where the band showcase their famous three-part harmonies, which echoes beautifully off the stained glass walls of The Albert Hall.
The lights are dimmed for ‘Unaffordable’ Portielje and Molander sharing the stage each with a keyboard, guitar and mic, with huge circular lights behind them. Young Molander airing a harmonica which brings a folk and blues feel to the gig. Watching them all on stage demonstrate their multi-instrumental abilities, Half Moon Run grabs the full attention of tonight’s crowd.
Portielje exchanges his guitar for drum sticks in preparation of standout album track ‘Call Me In The Afternoon’, the impact of Portielje’s drumming, draws the crowd in even further.
“Thank you so much guys, I feel the love right now. It’s great to be in a venue like this”
Track ‘Sun Leads Me on’ Portielje gets to his knees to play a guitar solo with his mouth, in true clichéd rock and roll style, the band really do have it all. Track ‘Consider Yourself’ closes out the stage for the encore.
“We love you Manchester you’re the greatest. We will be back as soon as we can”
The band return for the encore, playing their most upbeat tracks ‘Trust’ followed by favourite ‘Full Circle’ with the crowd singing along, as the whole atmosphere is heightened for the finale. The band leave the stage once again.
The crowd make way for the exit, just as we think it’s all over, the band return to the stage again, this time they are joined with their support act, singer-song writer Aidan Knight and his band. All eight are throwing themselves into what has become a live jamming session in The Albert Hall. The crowd are left overwhelmed.
The talent of this band is undeniable and they were highly enthusiastic throughout their set giving sheer energy into the gig.
