Peter Murphy, Lettie @ Dingwalls, London

Peter Murphy

Lettie

@

Dingwalls London

An endless stream of black figures dodge countless tourists, duck out of the way of hurried commuters and turn the corner leading to Camden’s Dingwalls venue; there they are met by the ever-increasing crowd all dressed up in impeccable gloom and thrilling elegance.

Tonight opens with Lettie for support. Her delicate vocals and manner of synth playing provides a distinct atmosphere that creates a tangible intimacy with the crowd. Catatonic movements and unique sounds enthrall the crowd as they try to discern just what she’s about. However, the quietened surroundings don’t last long as the time draws nigh for Peter Murphy to greet the attentive audience.

As he strides on stage, adorned in a feathered collar and wrapped in an electric blue silk shirt - Peter Murphy is the only slice of colour in the entire venue and he stands striking against the crowd as they look on in pure adoration. Opening with ‘Low Room’, and rousing a sing-a-long as he covers The Stooges ‘Raw Power’ Murphy’s enigmatic presence is felt by all in the now incredibly packed venue. Sharing a truly close relationship with his band, there is an interaction; an understanding and a shared passion that drives each member and adds a tremendous layer to tonight’s performance. To hear ‘Strange Kind of Love’ merge into ‘Bela Lugosi’s Dead’ is frankly, an unforgettable moment. Truth be told, the choice of Bauhaus covers tonight is impeccable, ‘Stigmata Martyr’, with its screeching distortion and gruesome Latin splutters stirs a nostalgic tremor across the venue. Finally ending with ‘Your Face’, Murphy casts a wave of silence and despite his cynical demeanour and unceasing energy, he leaves a crowd touched by a legacy of inspirational talent.

Review by Victoria Walsh
Photography Asif Salam