On Friday 15th March, the newly refurbished Bristol Beacon became a haven for music enthusiasts as the highly anticipated concert featuring Holly Humberstone took centre stage. With support from the talented Medium Build, the evening promised an unforgettable musical journey, and it certainly delivered. 

As the venue swelled with eager fans, the air buzzed with anticipation. The youthful energy of the audience, averaging between 20 to 25 years old, added an electric atmosphere to the already vibrant setting. The stage, adorned with a colossal spider's web backdrop bearing Holly Humberstone's name, set the tone for the evening—a blend of haunting melodies and raw emotion. 

Medium Build kicked off the night with a compelling performance, led by the enigmatic Nick Carpenter. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Carpenter's alternative style captivated the crowd, drawing them into his world of introspective songwriting. The audience eagerly participated, echoing his calls and screams, setting the stage for the main event. 

Then as the stage filled with dry ice, the crowd erupted as Holly Humberstone and her band took their positions. With Lauren O'Donnel on drums, Jack Rennie on guitar, Seth Tackaberry on bass and synth, and Holly herself commanding guitar and keyboards, the ensemble was ready to go. 

Launching into the opening chords of "Paint My Bedroom Black," Holly captivated the audience from the first note. Her voice, both delicate and commanding, soared through the venue, each lyric resonating with emotion. Throughout the night, she seamlessly transitioned between acoustic and electric guitars, showcasing her musical versatility. 

A highlight of the evening was the duet with Nick Carpenter on "Cocoon", a mesmerising collaboration that left the audience spellbound. Between songs, Holly offered glimpses into her life, sharing personal anecdotes with sincerity and warmth. Her performance of "London is Lonely" on the keyboards was particularly poignant, evoking a sense of longing and introspection. 

Another standout moment came with "Elvis Impersonators," a heartfelt tribute to her sisters and their adventures in Japan. Holly's storytelling drew the audience into her world, transforming the concert into an intimate gathering of friends sharing tales and memories. 

As the final chords faded into the night, the audience was left awestruck, yearning for more. Holly Humberstone's debut at Bristol Beacon was nothing short of spectacular. 

Words and Pictures by Leigh Bruin