Words and Photos by Grace Lamb
“Live music is not a luxury. Let’s keep it accessible.” An unforgettable message for a noteworthy night.
Only The Poets, a Reading-based four-piece band, gained popularity after opening for Louis Tomlinson. On February 2nd, they played O2 Academy Brixton for their “Brixton For A Quid” show, supporting accessible live music. Tickets cost just £1 each, matched with a donation to Live Trust. Their first major performance since releasing their debut album And I’d Do It Again three days earlier, the show exceeded high expectations, uniting nearly 5,000 people for a truly iconic evening.
Beyond making the gig accessible, the band let rising musicians compete for the opener slot. Initially, only one opening act was planned, but OTP’s lead singer, Tommy Longhurst, shared mid-show that choosing between the two talented acts, SEREN and Belle Dame, was impossible.
OTP’s tour photographer, Jordan Daniel Logan, and the band partnered with Nikon to give 10 winners access to the photo pit, gaining experience and professional guidance.
Belle Dame from Southampton opened the night, engaging the audience with chemistry, strong vocals, and stage presence. Lead singer Eduardo Moreira and guitarist Ben Ballantyne stood out, enjoying every moment.
Seren and her band followed, grateful for the opportunity. Seren began shyly, but soon her powerful vocals drew attention. Her songs revealed a strong identity, with tuneful vocals and an assured performance. Both acts gained new fans, as shown by enthusiastic cheers after each song.
Once ready, Only The Poets took the stage. Confetti during I Keep On Messing It Up set the triumphant tone, symbolising an OTP milestone with their midweek Top Ten Album placement.
The setlist built momentum, with early songs like God Knows Where You Were, Emotionally Hungover, and Bad getting everyone moving. Mid-set, Madeline brought a vulnerable moment with phone flashlights, while Saké offered a groove, letting the audience catch their breath before the finale.
After Saké, emotions ran high as Tommy shared the band’s UK midweek Top 10 chart spot. More hits and confetti followed. The band paused to strengthen the importance of accessible live music. The crowd demanded more, resulting in an encore—JUMP! and Emotional—with energy so intense the floor shook.
Tommy’s vocals, Andy and Clem’s guitars, and Marcus’ beats electrified the entire venue, even reaching the balcony. The band’s authenticity shone through, with talent taking precedence over theatrics. This was more than a gig; it served as a call for other artists to keep live music accessible, challenging high ticket prices that exclude fans. OTP’s achievement is monumental and will be remembered.
Loudspeaker Collective 