ThisIsTheMusic

Four months away from the stage can leave some bands rusty — but not Marseille. On Friday night they returned to the stage at The Lexington, delivering a storming and captivating set that had the sell-out London crowd buzzing with anticipation. In return they were treated to a masterclass in modern indie swagger from one of the most exciting young bands in the country right now.

From the opening chords of Heaven’s at My Door, it was clear that Marseille meant business. Fan favourite Monkey in the Middle followed, sending energy levels through the roof and getting the crowd moving from the first chord.

Frontman Will Brown was in commanding form, his vocals soaring with a mix of raw emotion and effortless control. His stage presence has grown stronger with every tour — confident, magnetic, and utterly natural — the kind of frontman who can have a crowd hanging on every word without even trying.

Behind him, Joe Labram, guitar work was nothing short of scintillating. Whether it was the jangly melodic runs on Monkey in the Middle or the atmospheric textures that shimmered through Out of the Blue (potential new single), his playing added depth and colour to every song.

And then there’s the tight rhythm section, of drummer Tom Spray was as tight and propulsive as ever, driving the rhythm with precision and punch, Lennon Hall’s guitars holding everything together and Will Sabey’s groovy bass lines. The 5-piece moved as one — confident, dynamic, and musically sharp — the sound of a band completely locked in.

But it was the introduction of three brand-new songs that really showed the band’s evolution. Out of Time shimmered with emotional weight and tight rhythmic interplay, before Out of the Blue expanded their sound with a dreamy yet defiant edge. Then came High as a Bird — a soaring, anthemic highlight that instantly felt like a future fan favourite. The way Marseille transitioned from that into She Can Fly was nothing short of inspired — seamless, cinematic, and utterly exhilarating.

As the night drew to a close, History provided a spine-tingling emotional peak — a moment where Will’s voice cracked with genuine feeling, and the crowd sang back every word. Then came the finale: Fever. The band jammed out the final chorus like a group that owns the stage, with the crowd moving as one. It was indie rock in its purest form, swagger, soul, and sheer connection.

Marseille’s return to live action wasn’t just a gig, it was a statement. A reminder that when they’re on form, they’re untouchable. The Lexington belonged to them tonight, and if this performance is anything to go by, 2026 is set to be their biggest year yet.

📸 Main photo: Anya Maya Photography