Live Gallery & Review | Dead Pony @ The o2 Forum Kentish Town, London

JOSEPHINE BEST

Photographer & Music Journalist based in East London.

An electric atmosphere from first to final note for Dead Pony at the o2 Forum Kentish Town

Last Saturday night at The O2 Forum in Kentish Town, the stage was set for headliners The Blackout by Scottish indie-rock powerhouse, Dead Pony. The atmosphere was electric, and from the first to the final note, Dead Pony delivered a performance that left the audience buzzing with adrenaline, giving a headliner level performance to the iconic London venue.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd’s anticipation reached its peak, Dead Pony burst onto the stage with unbridled energy. The band wasted no time in setting the tone for the night. The Forum’s acoustics was immediately filled with their gritty, distorted guitar riffs and drum beats, signalling the beginning of a wild set.

The setlist was a well-crafted blend of older tracks and newer releases, each song seamlessly transitioning into the next. One standout moment for me was their performance of “23, Never Me” where vocalist Anna Shields’ raspy yet soulful vocals dominated through the venue, captivating the audience with every lyric. Their setlist also included anthems such as “COBRA”, “MANA” and “MK Nothing” which are all set to be a part of their upcoming debut album’s track list titled “Ignore This”.

The chemistry between the band undeniable, creating a dynamic stage presence that held the audience’s attention throughout the set. Shields, with her commanding stage persona, effortlessly switched between fierce intensity and vulnerable moments, connecting with the crowd on a visceral level. Meanwhile, the rest of the band provided the backbone for Dead Pony’s iconic sound, driving the music forward with precision and flair. The audience response was immediate and fervent, with mosh pits forming and fans singing along to every chorus, even if they were hearing the band for the first time.

As the set reached its climax, Dead Pony left the stage with the crowd, myself included, craving more. Their performance was a masterclass in delivering raw, unapologetic rock, and it’s evident that this band is destined for greater heights. The Blackout may have been the headliners, but Dead Pony undeniably left an indelible mark on the crowd that will resonate for a long time to come. Keep an eye on Dead Pony – they are a force to be reckoned with the band unveiling their first full-length debut album “Ignore This” on April 5, 2024.