In the midst of a typically gloomy Irish summer at the All Together Now festival, Future Islands, headed by the charmingly groovy Samuel T Herring, brings a ray of joy with an hour’s performance of heartfelt indie pop music. In their latest album, People Who Aren’t There Any More, they skilfully blend the melancholy of Herring’s break-up with Swedish actress Julia Ragnarsson with uplifting beats that leave listeners feeling elevated.
Launching their performance with King of Sweden, a new track filled with emotion, the quartet lays it bare under the misty rain. Herring captivates the audience with the unique rhythm of his dance moves, oscillating between the flamboyance of a kabuki-inspired mid-life crisis and an Elvis impersonator who’s newly found Disco. This vibrant performance intensifies their melancholic synth-driven music, creating a delightful yet unexpected harmony, all thanks to Herring’s irresistible charisma.
Although hindered by the rain-soaked stage, Herring’s determined to deliver an unapologetic performance. The exuberance of his eccentric moves lends an appealing charm to their songs The Tower and Ran. The show isn’t over when they reach arguably their most popular track, Seasons (Waiting for You) – a song that was essential in introducing Future Islands to a broader audience beyond their Baltimore art-pop roots. Despite the continued drizzle, the performance remains a heartfel, uplifting affair.
Herring sways in rhythm (although not sliding), the spectators sway with joy, and the massive Pikachu Pokémon jigging amid the spectators is highlighted on the digital display. It’s indeed a victorious Sunday evening for all beings, large and tiny – a spark of delight much needed in our lives.