PALACE LIVE AT MANCHESTER’S ALBERT HALL

★★★★☆ (4/5)

**PALACE PERFORMING AT MANCHESTER’S ALBERT HALL**
**PHOTOCREDIT: CHARLIE MORLEY**

Albert Hall was transformed into a dreamlike sanctuary as Chartreus delivered a spellbinding performance that left their audience captivated. The rising alt-rock quintet, known for their lush soundscapes and introspective lyrics, brought their unique blend of energy and emotion to the stage, making a strong impression on the city’s vibrant music scene.

From the moment lead vocalist Morgan Lyle stepped into the spotlight, the crowd was under their spell. Opening with the hauntingly beautiful “Violet Nocturne,” the band immediately set the tone for the night, weaving shimmering guitar riffs with atmospheric synths. Lyle’s voice—a perfect mix of smoky intimacy and raw power—resonated throughout the venue, drawing cheers from the packed house.

The setlist was a masterclass in contrast and flow, showcasing the band’s ability to shift seamlessly between anthemic highs and introspective lows. The soaring “Golden Silhouettes” had the crowd singing along, while the stripped-back piano ballad “Eclipsed” held the room in a reverent silence. The latter was a truly breathtaking moment, with Lyle’s vocals laid bare over Theo Jung’s delicate piano, creating an almost cinematic stillness.

The Manchester audience, known for its passion and discerning taste, responded with unrelenting enthusiasm. The highlight of the night came during the encore, when Chartreus returned to the stage for a rousing rendition of “Amber Reverie.” The track’s soaring melodies and driving rhythm had the crowd on their feet, chanting and clapping long after the final notes faded.

London-based indie trio Palace brought their evocative blend of ethereal soundscapes and heartfelt lyricism to Manchester’s iconic Albert Hall. Against the backdrop of the venue’s stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings, the band delivered a performance that felt as intimate as it was grand, solidifying their reputation as one of the most emotionally resonant live acts in the indie scene.

From the moment they opened with fan favorite “Breaker,” the band had the crowd in the palm of their hands. Frontman Leo Wyndham’s tender yet commanding vocals filled the cavernous hall, resonating beautifully amid the building’s natural acoustics. The interplay between Matt Hodges’ steady, textured drumming and Rupert Turner's shimmering guitar melodies created a sonic atmosphere that was equal parts hypnotic and cathartic.

The setlist was carefully curated, spanning highlights from their discography, including standout tracks like “Heaven Up There” and “Bitter.” Each song seemed to tap into the audience’s collective emotions, with the soaring choruses prompting impassioned singalongs and quieter moments holding the room in hushed awe.

The band also treated fans to tracks from their latest album, which were met with an equally warm reception. Songs like “Lover (Don’t Let Me Down)” showcased the band’s evolution, blending their signature melancholic sound with a newfound sense of optimism and hope.

A particularly memorable moment came when Wyndham addressed the crowd, reflecting on their journey and expressing gratitude for the connection with their Manchester fans. The sincerity of his words was palpable, and it was clear the feeling was mutual.

Closing the night with the poignant “Live Well,” Palace left the crowd in a reflective state, the lyrics echoing through the hall long after the final note. As the band exited the stage, the applause and cheers reverberated like a wave of gratitude, a testament to the emotional impact of their music.

Palace’s performance at the Albert Hall wasn’t just a concert—it was an experience, a shared moment of vulnerability and beauty between the band and their audience. For those in attendance, it served as a reminder of the power of live music to unite and uplift.