I was very much looking forward to this gig, having first seen Tanzana supporting Lucia & The Best Boys at SWG3 last March. This time, they were headlining a sold-out — and very warm — McChuills.

Following powerful sets from the supporting acts Vacant Pavements and Isabella Strange, it was clear from the moment Tanzana stepped on stage that they had the room in the palm of their hand. Fans surged forward, trying to get as close to the quintet as possible, phones and earplugs at the ready.

They opened the set with Inversion, and I tried my best not to show my jealousy of the fans who already knew every word to this brilliant track. I need to catch up with them.

Sarah and Lily led the show on guitars, performing Tanzana’s tracks like Lucky and Liminal Space, while Katie on bass and Karolina on drums made Unnamed, YBIB, and PPP soar across the chanting crowd.

(Side note: in Italy, PPP is the acronym of the writer and film director Pier Paolo Pasolini— a fun coincidence.)

The set paused momentarily for a stunning cover of Nude by Radiohead. The band made the song entirely their own, with lead singer Freya’s ethereal voice breathing new life into it. I’m certain even Thom Yorke would be left jaw-dropped by this rendition.

As the show neared its end, the energy reached its peak. The crowd erupted as Tanzana launched into their hit Covet. Freya’s powerful vocals filled the venue, sending goosebumps through the room.

Tanzana’s performance at McChuills gave me the same chills I felt the first time I saw them. I’ll keep hoping they release a vinyl soon — I want to listen to all their songs on repeat.

Article: Marco Cornelli