I know, I know. My first time seeing Half Moon Run live... it seems impossible considering my ten-year long adoration of them and their music. Alas, its true, but that didn't stop me from having the best time ever. They, somehow, were better than expected. Despite stood on the far right of the stage as a backstage guest, it was clear to me, several things. One, this band have a very unique and fun stage presence with quirky dancing and sharing drums. Two, the crowd love them - undeniably so.
However, one essential thing? A great set. After a questionable set experience with The Killers at Reading, more than ever did I notice the effect of a beautifully organised set. By which, I mean, spreading the good songs out, separating new songs, having a planned 'lower' bit and spreading out the 'energetic' ones. Of course, to no surprise of mine at all, the balance in their set was unmatched.
HMR have such a unique sound and voice, part of what I've always loved about them, so I was intrigued to see how alike they were live. The answer is, entirely. Every note, every pitch, and most importantly with HMR, every damn harmony was beautiful. But, if you're here, reading this, I assume you know I met them too. So, what were they really like in person, face to face?
Lovely. I'm pretty sure I blacked out several times in meeting them (so unusual for me, I'm very cool when I meet people I've looked up to for a decade) and probably said embarrassing shit. Like champions, they just accepted whatever word vomit came out of my mouth and even further spoke about how amazing it is when people come up to them and tell them that their lives were saved by their music, etc.
And, I guess just as importantly, they're all about the music. That's right, people, I'm talking about passion. Their sincere love for their music and jobs and people that receive their music is truly overpowering, in the best way possible. Due to being in the backstage area, I had the pleasure of being able to watch the crowd just as much as the band. The energy was pretty much unlike any other gig I've been to. Emotions were running high, people knew the songs word for word and sang them with power. HMR have brought so many people together and not all artists can say that; the emotions put into their music, which I spoke about with them in my interview with the band, translates and reflects into their audience.
Ultimately, HMR are amazing live. They have a fervent passion for their music and perform with ferocity, in a beautiful way. They are kind and open people with sincerity behind each song. This is a band that you need to love to see live because each song touches the depths of everyones soul in that crowd, unlike I've ever seen before. HMR have been doing this for over a decade, continuing to grow and love, and I'm forever impressed and will continuously encourage; listen to their music, watch them live. You won't regret it.
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