The Last Dinner Party’s From the pyre tour took their extravagant nature and motto, “more is more,” and delivered. Between the crowd, the openers, and the main act, each aspect of the show was brimming with life.
To start, I have never seen a crowd so full of queer artistic individuals as I did at this show. Everywhere I looked I saw people (dressed incredibly by the way- mid show Abigail Morris pointed out two audience members dressed entirely in Medieval garb) entirely comfortable with themselves. There was an air of artistic inclination in the crowd from when I was waiting in line for the doors to open to the end of the show. I saw all kinds of people, and found myself people watching to see all of the different characters who had made the pilgrimage to be there.
In line I saw a handful of these characters- from the girl who asked if Songs of Innocence was Wordsworth (so close diva, it’s Blake), the girl who held up a snapchat sign that said “who here has weed,” to the parents of the middle school/ early high school aged daughter who brought her to the show. The crowd was entirely enthusiastic and happy to be there, and the bands themselves were so interactive with the audience that by the time the night had ended, each audience member had built a personal connection to the band.
Florence Road
The opening band, Florence Road, were an incredible choice for an opener. It is no understatement to say that the crowd LOVED them. Sonically, their rock and indie pop sound matched The Last Dinner Party’s glam rock and almost choral style nicely. The lead vocalist and guitarist, Lily Aron, had such clear and powerful vocals that juxtaposed her appearance/ vibe of a “average small town girl” in an adorable dress. She flew through riffs and sustained belts with ease.
Another member of note (for I am Very Short and could really only see two members for most of their show) was the bassist and background vocalist Ailbhe Barry. She portrayed an air of absolute nonchalance whilst playing the bass lines and singing background vocals. My eyes were continuously drawn to her absolute relaxation on the stage. Their setlist was a mix of rock anthems (such as “Goodnight”) and slow ballads (“Rabbits Can Swim”), each of which the band executed flawlessly. I found myself hoping for a longer opening act by the time they finished, and couldn’t wait to get home and further delve into their discography.
I also had the absolute pleasure of meeting the band members after the show, and their kind demeanor on stage translates to their off stage demeanor. They were such an absolute pleasure to watch and talk to, and I look forward to following their career as they continue to grow.
The Last Dinner Party
The Last Dinner Party gave the crowd a fabulous show. The stage and outfit design along with the band’s theatricality were incredible to watch. The setlist was a combination of both albums (Prelude to Ecstasy, 2024, and From The Pyre, 2025), with songs of all varieties (ranging from the choral and witchy “Woman is a Tree,” “Rifle,” & “Gjuha” to their biggest hit “Nothing Matters”) bouncing all over their discography.
One thing I really appreciated about their setlist choice is that it allowed each of the members to shine- each of the main vocalists performed songs on which they had the lead, allowing for variety in the performance. The Last Dinner Party’s front woman, Abigail Morris, displayed a level of theatricality seen in artists such as Freddie Mercury. She was entirely in control, prancing and dancing across the stage. She kept the audience engaged throughout the whole show, even between songs with her banter.
Morris’ voice was a powerhouse, often belting while Maryland and Nishevci provided background vocals that floated above and danced with each other. Lizzie Maryland (vocals and guitar) had a voice so beautiful that I couldn’t help but zone in on her background (and lead) vocals on every song (especially “Rifle,” just incredible). Aurora Nishevci (keyboards, vocals) also had a strong stage presence. She appeared entirely elegant and melancholy, and her voice was low, warm, and striking. Emily Roberts (lead guitar, mandolin, and flute) was absolutely shredding it onstage, and Georgia Davies (bassist) provided a calm & cool demeanor as well as comedic banter with the audience between songs.
Each of the women stopped to converse with the audience throughout the set, sharing what was important to them about the songs (Nishevci stopping to talk about the importance of immigrants before “Gjuha,” and connecting Houston’s rich culture to their own backgrounds) and creating a conversation with the audience. The Last Dinner Party was a fresh burst of talent and spectacle. I’ve been a fan since their debut album in 2024, but seeing it live was an entirely new and incredible experience.
This show was easily one of my favorite shows I have ever been to. Both bands were captivating and the crowd was so passionate about the music. This is definitely a tour to check out!!!
I am a full time student and writer born and raised in Houston, Texas. I am currently a senior at UH, majoring in English Literature with a minor in World Cultures and Literature. I hope to get my Masters in Gothic Literature. I play multiple instruments, speak sign language, and enjoy spending time with loved ones. In my free time you will most likely find me curled up with a good book, or at a local art/music show.
I'm a Houston/Texas based photographer and Palestinian artist. I am currently attending the University of Houston pursuing a bachelors in Psychology with a Studio Arts minor! Away from the camera lense, I'm documenting captivating moments at a show.. I like to spend my time with friends, reading, visiting antique stores, or spending time with my puppy! I am super passionate about all things art and music and cannot wait to continue sharing that with the world.
