Darlia

The Blackpool based, grunge-rock band Darlia headed to Bristol last week to perform one of their many sold out gig venues at the Bristol Thekla, and I was lucky enough to attend.

After I managed to push right to the front of the crowd, who were stuffed into the venue tighter than a glam rock band’s skinny jeans, Darlia entered the stage and the crowd completely lost their minds. Just the sight of front man Nathan Day caused some people surrounding me to scream. The energy of the venue was incredible as Darlia slammed their distinctive grunge influenced sounds through the Thekla.

Their live performance was a true reflection of the talent these three men (Nathan Day (vocals), Dave Williams (bass), Jack Bentham (drums)) really have, with every chord and note played with perfection.

They played classic songs off their original E.P ‘Knock Knock’ such as 'Choke On Bones', which sent the crowd into manic mosh mode and I am completely thankful and surprised that I did not break a rib. In fact, before they began playing, Nathan himself admitted to the crowd he was “scared what will happen during this song”.

They rocked new hits such as ‘I’ve Never Been To Ohio’ from their newly released mini album ‘Petals’, and classic tracks like ‘Dear Diary’ which originally catapulted them into the spotlight.

I really began to realise the popularity of this quickly growing rock band, as every single crowd member knew all of their lyrics.

After being called out for an encore, in which they played my favourite track ‘Blood Money’, the ruthless yet brilliant event drew to a close, and Nathan Day personally invited the whole crowd out for a cheeky cigarette, which to me highlights how much they involve their fans within their tours, making them stand out as appreciative individuals who respect their supportive followers. The whole night was an expression of Darlia’s true, pure talent, and I left the gig venue a lifelong fan.