The Cult Deliver a Blistering Performance as The Death Cult at Electric, Brixton!!
Written by Louise Phillips on November 23, 2023
The Cult Deliver a Blistering Performance as The Death Cult at Electric, Brixton!!
When the stage is cleared of negative energy by the burning of sage, you just know that something special is going to happen and The Cult did not disappoint!! As Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy took to an absolutely rammed venue, the audience erupted in rapturous applause as they launched into their first track, “83rd Dream” from their album Dreamtime. Bathed in a sea of dry ice, it was like taking a step back in time to the Cult 80’s heyday. Duffy looked like the epitome of an 80’s rockstar wielding his classic white Gretsch Falcon guitar whilst Astbury, ice cool in his dark shades, long black coat with hair in a bun. His iconic voice didn’t seem to have aged at all as he sliced through track after track seamlessly, with the power and prowess more often seen in a man half his age. It seemed impossible to believe that it was 40 years since the Death Cult originally formed as the rebirth of Astbury’s original band the “Southern Death Cult”.
With support from Lili Refrain, who’s Native American influences were unmistakable! A very appropriate warm up considering Astbury’s well known passion for Native American Culture! Refrain had a beautiful voice that captivated the audience.
The pulsating rhythm of “Gods Zoo” left the audience mesmerised, arms waving in the air as they danced like their lives depended on it, roaring in appreciation for their heroes! Rain was an absolute masterpiece as Duffy’s’ perfectly executed riff set the stage on fire, whilst the charismatic front man Astbury, with tambourine in hand strutted and writhed to the rhythm of the music! Just exquisite from the very first note, whilst “Flower in the Desert” was hypnotic and magnificent!
As the cult brought their night to a close with their iconic hit, “She Sells Sanctuary” the audience were euphoric! What a beautiful end to a breathtaking journey of classic Cult magic!!
Words and Photos by Louise Phillips
Photos of The Cult
Photos of Lili Refrain
Setlist:
83rd Dream
Christians
Gods Zoo
Brothers Grimm
Ghost Dance
Butterflies
A Flower in the Desert
Resurrection Joe
Horse Nation
Go West (Crazy Spinning Circles)
Hollow Man
Dreamtime
Spiritwalker
Rain
Encore:
Moya
She Sells Sanctuary
