Sleeper’s Dublin stop at Opium was a memorable, genuinely enjoyable show from a band that still sounds like they mean it. The audience packed in early and were well up for it, a mix of longtime fans and those who’ve clearly picked up the songs along the way. Opium suited this kind of gig, it’s a large enough venue for a big atmosphere, but still intimate enough that nothing feels distant at all.
The band got straight into things after a short intro. Frontwoman Louise Wener kept things loose on stage and was chatty throughout the evening. Things never felt scripted, which made the whole night feel totally relaxed – almost like we were in on an exclusive show. The setlist leaned into fan favourites, with no unnecessary reinvention. On the whole, the night was really a reminder of why these songs have stood the test of time. The band still sound completely at home in them.
Sleeper photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Cellophane
Delicious
Pyrotechnician
The Sun Also Rises
What Do I Do Now?
Look at You Now
Lie Detector
Nice Guy Eddie
We Should Be Together – Acoustic
Factor 41
Statuesque
Inbetweener
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Atomic / Love Will Tear Us Apart
Sale of the Century
Photos & Words by Myles Dunne – @MylesDunnePhoto