DEADLETTER Heats Up with Hysterical Strength

DEADLETTER, once a trio hailing from the wilds of Yorkshire, is now a six-member band exploding with creativity in London – talk about a population boom!  And when they hit the stage at Babylon in Istanbul, it was clear: their sound isn’t the only thing that’s grown—so has their impact! They rocked the stage at Babylon in Istanbul, leaving the crowd with an unforgettable experience. During “Madge’s Declaration,” when the lyrics “I’ve got shoes but no soul!” played, one of the audience members took off her shoes and raised them high, perfectly matching the spirit of the song. Thankfully, she didn’t throw them on stage…

Zac Lawrence didn’t hold back when it came to transferring his energy from the stage to the crowd. He jumped off stage several times, moving through the audience and getting them even more hyped. Not only did he sing, but he also contributed to DEADLETTER’s chaotic yet intimate atmosphere in the best way.

And the next morning, most of the people had to go to work with sore bodies. Watching DEADLETTER wasn’t just an experience; it was a test of endurance!

Snap taken by @ozgurelver

Their sound is like a delightful blend of retro vibes and modern sass, reminiscent of iconic 1980s bands like Gang of Four—only with fewer mullets. Instead of belting out obvious statements, DEADLETTER’s lyrics are more like riddles, inviting you to use your brain and interpret their meaning. Because, really, why should music just hand you answers on a silver platter? This playful intellectualism runs through their debut album, Hysterical Strength.

“It’s a beautiful mess out there,” quips frontman Zac Lawrence, capturing the essence of their work. Teamed up with his trusty pals Alfie Husband and George Ullyott, along with the dynamic squad of Poppy Richler, Sam Jones, and Will King, they’ve crafted what could be one of the most essential albums of 2024.

The album, with a name that sounds like a doctor’s note, amusingly captures the chaos of modern life. Lawrence says, “I like turning something ugly into nice music.” And they really deliver! In twelve tracks, Hysterical Strength blasts out sharp guitars, lively rhythms, and saxophone licks that would make any music lover smile, all tied together with lyrics that create wild images.

PS: If you’re in the mood for a concert poster, just remember to perform a delicate heist on the walls downtown—mine is torn!


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