Funeral For A Friend hit the UK rock scene in 2003 with their award-winning album Casually Dressed and Deep in Conversation.

Since this release they have had numerous top 40 singles and platinum selling albums. Perhaps what brings the most familiarity, however, is the word “Emo”. Now, there are debates as to where Emo originated, but Emo as we know it (fringe over one eye, studded belts, you know the look) was definitely something that Funeral For A Friend brought to the mainstream.

As Funeral For A Friend hit the stage in front of a near sell-out crowd, it was clear to see that there was a definite maturity about them and that they were miles away from the Screamo-tinged Emo music that they made there names with. Now sporting a mix between sensible short back and sides, casual beards and the hair-down-to-your-knees look, Funeral For A Friend came across as a band that had matured, evolved and perfected their live show to a level where you could sit back and enjoy a truly consummate performance.

Funeral played some of their breakthrough songs to commemorate the release of their debut album almost five years to the day of the show. The crowd went wild for the likes of Juno and Bend Your Arms To Look Like Wings, screaming every word, allowing front man Norman to consistently cut out and let the crowd do the singing. After around 25 minutes of the eventual hour-long set, three members of the band left the stage leaving only Norman on vocals and lead guitarist Steven. As a tribute to the release of their debut album, the two remaining members went on to play Slow Song from their debut album. It was a similar feeling to when Biffy Clyro played Machines at Leeds Festival this year, where it seemed every single person was singing along and really giving it their all. The pits really kicked off when Waterfront Danceclub kicked in and there was a really good atmosphere in the venue.

After playing a few more songs that the crowd went wild for, most noticeably She Drove Me To Day Time TV, the band left the stage to a huge ovation and to the cheers of “we want more”. A three-song encore was received with the same appreciation and enthusiasm that the rest of the set had sparked. The highlight of the encore was without doubt the rendition of the 2007 single Oblivion which seemed huge live.

Whether you are into Funeral For A Friend or not, I would really suggest that you check them out live if you get the chance, as they really are an example for young bands of how to perform, interact and enjoy a live show.