Review: Sea Power at The Brighton Dome

Heading back to the Brighton Dome for the first time in a number of years; this is the most recent significant renovation of the historic music venue, which makes up part of the “Royal Pavilion Estate” regeneration project. This project, undertaken in phases, aims to restore and enhance the historic qualities of the South Coast estate, improve facilities, and ensure this iconic venue’s long-term sustainability.

Sea Power played this gig as part of the Brighton Festival in the newly transformed venue Corn Exchange. This venue has been meticulously restored and reimagined to include improved seating for performances requiring chairs, new flooring, and enhanced backstage facilities. The original heritage features, such as the timber-work and traditional Victorian-style iron supports, have been conserved to retain the building’s historical 19th century feel but at the same time giving a modern twist in a space that makes the venue feel almost as it did when it was brand new.

Traversing a 17-song setlist Sea Power offer something different from your average alternative rock outfit. The addition of strings and horns within their music adds another level of dynamicism. The haunting trumpet sounds overlaid with guitars licks and keys really make you question why this group of musicians have not enjoyed more commercial career success. 

Frontman Yan Scott Wilkinson’s vocals were as compelling as ever, conveying a raw intensity that resonates deeply in a live capacity. The track listing was a masterful mix of old favourites as well as new material. Highlights included the anthemic “Waving Flags” and the hauntingly beautiful “The Land Beyond,” both of which showcased the band’s ability to craft songs that are both simultaneously epic and intimate.

This is a group clearly far underrated within the industry for musical ability and live performance.