Barns Courtney is no stranger to the spotlight. Whether you know him by name or not, you have no doubt heard his music across film, tv adverts and elsewhere.
Having seen Barns supporting The Wombats back in 2018, I knew what to expect. He came to stage at The Academy with every bit of charisma he’s always had. Even halfway through the first track he was stop-start, noticing a fan balling her eyes out in the front row. He exchanged some banter about it and the crowds were in fits of laughter. Even that moment alone seemed to define the tone for the rest of the night. Barns was as much a comedian as he is a world class soloist.
Hearing “Fire” was undoubtedly the highlight of the night. The guitar anthem coming through the loudspeakers was something else. His mix of bluesy rock riffs, stomping drums and explosive choruses sounded massive live, filling The Academy with a rawness that is unmistakably him. The production stayed relatively simple, no elaborate visuals or over-the-top theatrics… the performance never needed them.
This sweat soaked evening at The Academy reminded us of why it is we go to live shows. The lack of phones, our over the top frontman and some all-time classic anthems made this a night of music impossible to forget.
Jake Whiskin was in support on the evening. He gave us a beautiful, downtempo set that even coerced some tears out of the front row.
Jake Whiskin photos:
Barns Courtney photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Golden Dandelions
Good Thing
London Girls
Hellfire
Sinners
Little Boy
Dopamine
Long Walk To Heaven
The Attractions of Youth
You and I
Hobo Rocket
Supernatural
Glitter & Gold
Kicks
Fire
“99”
Photos & Words by Myles Dunne – @MylesDunnePhoto