We spent an evening of musical bliss at Rough Trade in Bristol.

Thursday evening was brimmed full of musical excellence within the walls of Rough Trade Bristol; including performances from dynamic London-cum-Milton Keynes collective The International Lovers supporting Ascot Avant-indie duo Febueder. 

The International Lovers were nothing short of magical, enchanting the crowd with their intimate set. Each member of the eight-piece band complemented one another, collaborating with effortless synchronicity. They performed with an eclectic range of instruments – from guitars to a tambourine – all of which came together to create an ethereal overall soundscape. The sound of The International Lovers was only enhanced by their wonderful stage presence; with angelic white dresses and a soothing aura that embodied their sound and brought it to life. 

When discussing their unique sound, The International Lovers have explained that their musical process originated by “play[ing] in an improvisational style”, which they now incorporate into their songwriting process, “integrating what [they] learned from those original flow states”. This was reflective in several of the band’s gradually building tracks, coating the entire set with a refreshing sense of refined authenticity. 

Febueder enthralled the crowd, to say the least; people were swaying and hanging onto every note from the iconic duo’s set. The band combined beautiful, otherworldly vocals — reminiscent of alt-J — with progressive instrumentals built to the most satisfying climaxes. The gradual yet immersive nature of the songs conveyed a narrative feel, emphasised by the striking, emotive lyrics that were sung with a heart-wrenching sincerity. Febueder performed with slick, effortless confidence that remained modest and unpretentious.

We’ll remember the joys of seeing The International Lovers and Febueder performing live for a long time. If you get the opportunity to see either of the bands live, it is not one to be missed. But until next time, we’ll be filling the void by listening to their music through our headphones.

Reach The International Lovers here & Febueder here.