No Stopping for Delays

Gig Review and Photos by Di

It’s a true testament to Delays’ talents that, even on a night hindered by illness and technical problems, the band still turn out a stunning performance, capturing the hearts of much of the Sheffield crowd.

Though many were obviously there to see Easyworld’s return to the North as part of their recent tour, as the quartet took to the stage and opened with the breath-taking No Snow, all eyes were upon diminutive lead singer Greg Gilbert as his sublime voice filled the room.

Perfectly capturing and lighting up the Leadmill venue with the warming strains of summer, Delays create a fresh and addictive sound, no better encapsulated than in Way Smooth, which is wonderfully highlighted in this live context, inducing contradictory goose-bumps and heart-warming sensations in equal measure. The gentle meandering guitar blends effortlessly with Greg’s vocals before building in to an uplifting crescendo of a chorus, drawing you right to the heart of the song.

Though Greg takes center stage, be assured that none of the remaining members are overshadowed as each shines brightly and adds depth and intricate beauty, particularly to single Nearer Than Heaven, as the set continues to hypnotise the crowd. In particular Aaron raises many smiles as he energetically dances and sings, seated behind his trademark crates while he adds creative sampling effects, enriching the live performance- both musically and characteristically.

Soon though, all that could be seen from behind the crates was a cloud of smoke as Aaron settled himself on the floor, for the next few minutes belonged to Greg as he delivered the enchanting and already popular solo There’s Water Here. Stripped-down and exquisitely simple, only hearts of steel could fail to beat a little faster upon experiencing the gentle and sweet beauty of this gem.

Perhaps things were just going too perfectly because technical problems with Colin’s bass took over and delayed (sorry) proceedings, making for a worrying few seconds. Ever the consummate professional, Greg led straight into another new song - Out of Nowhere - diverting all attention to him and ensuring we stayed firmly under the Delays’ spell until all was restored. New single and favourite Hey Girl followed, lush and addictively melodic, it resonated through the venue and got many a head bopping and toe a-tapping.

With time running short, we were to be treated with one more superb song, One Night Away before the lads bid a hasty goodbye and cleared the stage to make way for the headlining trio.

As enchanting and glorious as you could wish for it to be, Delays have ensured that with this gig, only their second of the Easyworld tour, they have already captured the interests of many, with praise to rival that of their headlining tour-mates, and it’s easy to see why. ’You’re nearer than Heaven’, sings Greg. Close your eyes and take in the celestial sounds, and you feel that little bit closer yourself.