Review of the Adore gig in Galway's Róisín Dubh as they unveil new lineup
- Richard Blowes
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
Garage punk band Adore are now a quartet and as they play a Galway gig with a new bassist and guitarist we review the show.
Since the last time I saw them live (the Blowtorch Records WxSW showcase - also in Galway's Róisín Dubh), much has changed in Adore world. Bassist Lachlan has sadly departed; they have signed to Oxford, UK independent label Big Scary Monsters; their debut EP BITER is out on vinyl; they have two new members - Callum on bass and Ben on guitar - and frontwoman Lara has been joined onstage by a keyboard. Didn't see that coming.
What hasn't changed is the evident enthusiasm for what they do, namely rattling through melodic, garage punk pop songs with insouciant charm and confidence, driven as ever by the manic energy of Naoise on the drum stool.
Five minutes before she took the stage, Lara was at the bar discussing the benefits of a fringe for women. Her top tip? If you have a fringe you'll never look old. Her neat trick is taking that relatability onto the stage while also being a magnetic vocalist and mean guitarist.
She also mentioned that her writers' block was unblocked and that was apparent from the slew of new songs in the set. All seven tracks from BITER were played - eight if you include the vinyl bonus track Supermum! The setlist (right) numbers 17 tracks so we were treated to several previously unheard numbers.
It was a curiously sparsely attended gig however that diminished no-one's desire for a great night and meant more Adore-ation for those of us who ventured out. The beefed up sound with the extra guitarist was excellent and also provided a nice contrast with some quieter sections with Lara on her diminutive keyboard.
Next up for Adore is a short UK tour - catch them in a small venue while you can.
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