Two years after the release of their album So When You Gonna…, Dream Wife are finally taking it on tour. Is it worth the wait? Yes.
Back in July 2020, when the sun was blaring and beer gardens were packed, Dream Wife followed up their extraordinary self-titled debut album with So When You Gonna…, an even more unique, polished effort full of their trademark rebellious energy. Now, almost two years later, they are finally on the release tour for the record - and throughout this frenetic gig at the intimate Rescue Rooms, there is a real feeling of exactly that. Release.
From the moment the eclectic gang walk out on stage, they display a clear sense of excitement at being back in front of a live audience, performing real music for real people. And what a performance it is. In many ways, Dream Wife are a throwback to the post-punk days of Siouxsie and the Banshees, but with a fresh identity that feels innovative and singular.
Their frustration at being away from crowds for so long is firmly channelled into their show, with lead vocalist Rakel Mjöll taking every opportunity to involve the audience in the madness of the night. As the group perform the high-tempo Sports! late on in the set, they divide their fans in two and have each side cheer for either guitarist Alice Go or bassist Bella Podpadec as they go head-to-head in a jam session, with Mjöll commentating enthusiastically from the corner of the stage. It’s the sort of unique experience that you can only get from live performances, something that was so sorely missed for so long.
It may have taken a long time for Dream Wife to return to our city, but what a way to make up for lost time
Yet even amongst all the frenzy, there is time for more introspective moments. As the group power their way through the poignant Somebody, there is a transcendent energy in the air, a sense of solidarity from this collective event. It turns out Dream Wife can capture you with their slower, more contemplative numbers too.
Special mention should be given to Glaswegian support act Lucia & The Best Boys, who graced the stage with impressive confidence, setting the tone with their exhilarating intensity. Lead singer - you guessed it - Lucia wowed audiences with her phenomenal voice and infectious passion, and she was backed up with exquisite instrumental work from start to finish. Expect to see them leading their own tour around these parts very soon.
It may have taken a long time for Dream Wife to return to our city - after visiting the Rescue Rooms for their debut album a few years back - but what a way to make up for lost time. This group’s unique sound, style and spirit is even more impactful, more intoxicating, live. If you ever get the chance to see them, or Lucia & The Best Boys for that matter, you should definitely take it.
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