After a year of being inside with lockdowns, Larkins kicked off their headlining tour with a sold out show at Brudenell Social Club in Leeds. A long line of young people queued outside restlessly waiting for the return of live music. For some, it was their first gig in nearly two years.

First on was a dynamic duo named Arctic Lake, who are accompanying Larkins for the majority of the tour. With melancholy lyrics accompanied by light piano and heavy bass, they gave Birdy and Japanese House vibes while being unique with their words and stage presence. “We’re Arctic Lake. Like Arctic Monkeys but not as good… Well, that’s what my mum says”, Paul said, making the audience laugh.

As the room continued to fill, the packed crowd excitedly awaited Larkins to take centre stage. Wolf Alice was blasted over the speakers as the crew tuned up their instruments and fans were bonded over their love of Larkins. There was truly a mix of everyone in the audience. From goths in big platform boots to indie boys with messenger bags.

The band walked on the stage and the audience cheered as they sang along with Josh (lead vocalist). During moments of silence, they cheered ‘Yorkshire’, which I’m told is a regular occurrence at gigs in Leeds. Everyone was so full of energy and entering the mosh pit for their last couple of songs felt so incredibly nostalgic. After sitting in a bedroom playing music over the speakers since the first lockdown, it felt like a dream to be surrounded by people enjoying music together in one single place. For that moment in time, it felt like things were getting back to normal.

LARKINS - Leeds, UK - 12.08.21