The cobwebs were blown away by the South London six-piece sports team on Sunday morning, whose energetic indie rock went down for a treat in the John Peel tent. The group, most of whom met at the University of Cambridge, sing about a romanticized Central England, rather like early-era Blur. Their debut album Deep Down Happy was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2020, and its sequel, GULP !, will be released later this summer.
The group’s performance revolved around the manic energy of singer Alex Rice, who – at various times – climbed the lighting fixture, surfed crowds while a confetti cannon burst over the top, and roared and roared on the stage floor like an obsessed man. There are elements of the crazy circus performer for Rice (he wore a dual red narwhal hat for much of the set) and touches on the charisma and presence of INXS ‘Michael Hutchence as well. (Sources close to real sports teams tell me he’s also a pretty useful medium-fit bowler).
A mosh pit formed for a noise Lord’s The Thing, a pop song that positively crackles with energy. In a big tent like this, guitar-based music can sound muddy and its intricacies can be lost in the expanse. Everything ends up sounding a bit like indie dumping ground. It once or twice threatened to happen, but was saved by the mere energy of the individuals on stage. In a nod to Paul McCartney, they played A Little Help From My Friends. “This is beautiful. It’s the best festival in the world,” Lake said.
The whole tent seemed to leave with smiles on their faces. This hopefully sets the tone for Glasto’s last day. James Hall
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