Since forming in 2014, dream pop band Anteros have made quite the impression, supporting the likes of Two Door Cinema Club and White Lies, along with performing at huge festivals such as Glastonbury. To date they’ve released three EPs and have just announced their debut album, When We Land.

As part of their October 2018 headline tour, Anteros stopped off at Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar, with support from Orchards and Latenight Honeymoon. This show was the first I have been to at Sticky Mike’s since they announced their closure, due at the end of the year, and it felt both exciting and bittersweet attending a gig in the venue, which has helped promote many of the most exciting bands since opening in 2011.

First to perform were Orchards, who I’ve seen several times recently, but have found as equally captivating with each performance. The band’s ability to turn negative and difficult emotions into something fun and catchy is admirable and they never fail to put on a good show. Having seen them perform recently in support of Rolo Tomassi, they were definitely better suited to this evening’s line-up and it was clear from the crowd’s response that they were much more appreciated. With the recent release of their EP, Losers/Lovers, it was a joy to hear some of these songs live, highlight being banger ‘Luv You 2’.

Next to take to the stage were Latenight Honeymoon, who instantly stood out with their glittery outfits and natural confidence on stage. The band’s set consisted of anthemic riffs and it’s easy to imagine them selling out a bigger venue, in fact I can foresee fans holding up their lighters and singing their lyrics back to them. Their mixture of ballads, combined elements of both indie and pop, with an 80s tinge, makes for a refreshing, well-produced sound.

After the support acts had concluded their sets Anteros took to the stage. The band displayed great vocal abilities and instrumentation throughout their set, with lead singer Laura Hayden owning the stage. Hayden strutted across the stage, leaning over the barriers and pulling some pretty interesting facial expressions! During a performance of track ‘Bonnie’, she spoke of how the song was about letting go of expectations society had set her as a woman and the process of learning to be herself. For this track Hayden left the stage and walked amongst the crowd, dancing and singing with fans. This was a really nice touch and a reflection of the personal connection her fans have both with her and the band’s music. As the set progressed there was a perfect balance between both poppier and rockier songs, making for an equally soothing and energetic performance.

Having only previously seen Orchards I really enjoyed both Anteros and Latenight Honeymoons sets. Each band complimented each other and it’s exciting to think where each of these bands could be headed in time, each full of ambition and potential. With Anteros’ debut album on the horizon, there’s sure to be another tour in the pipeline and I’m sure their shows will be doubling in size.

Dan Whitehouse

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