Florence and the Machine put on an amazing show for their final night at Alexandra Palace on Saturday.
We swooned at the Art Deco drama of it all, jumped wildly up and down to Dog Days and sang along hysterically to You’ve Got the Love. But what got us really really excited was Florence’s support act Alpines, the best thing to come out of Kingston since… well, ever.
Singer Catherine Pockson commanded the huge arena with her anthemic electro pop while her friend and band mate Bob accompanied her on drums and guitar. But it wasn’t just the power of her voice that made us come over all tingly, it was her pop empress styling - long hair half pulled back into a warriorlike high pony tail, figure-hugging Hannah Marshall black velvet dress. It was a big look but the 25 year-old owned it.
And we're not the only ones with a crush on Alpines. Florence Welch is a fan - the band dedicated their song Drive to her, saying it was her favourite. ‘Flo is a very magical person and an inspiration’, Catherine gushed when we caught up with her backstage after what she described as 'the biggest and most exciting show we've played’.
The release date for Alpines' first album is yet to be confirmed, though the band are hoping to have it ready in September. If you can’t wait that long, Alpines will be a steady fixture on the summer festival circuit. Check their website for details.