Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *

It may not have been the sort of homecoming All We Are may had expected as they took to the stage at the 02 Academy in Liverpool but on a night when Everything Everything unfortunately postponed their gig at the last minute, there was no doubting just how fantastic the threesome of Guro Gikling, Richard O’ Flynn and Luis Santos have become

Opening up for Everything Everything on tour had been enjoyable; it was visible in the eyes of all three musicians as they played their music with an added exuberance, an extra zip in which they took full advantage of and above all shone as their self-belief showed for the audience to revel in.

Whilst the crowd had obviously made their way into Liverpool on a slate grey evening for the headline band, All We Are showed yet again why they are very much loved in their adopted city and in all the places in which they have found themselves since forming. The music is eclectic and wonderfully sublime; it pulsates with the rhythm of the generosity of spirit, of three musicians who seem to have grown closer whilst they have been away and whose songs feel as if they are the personification of musical film noir.

Whilst it was certainly a shame that Everything Everything had to postpone their part of the night, All We Are gave their set the edge all bands strive for. Their choice of tracks inspired as Ebb/Flow, Stone, the beauty of Honey, Feel Safe, the wonder of Go and Utmost Good all being well received by a crowd that might have been taken by surprise to be enamoured by a support act.

That though is All We Are’s charm, three great musicians who sneak upon you and gently suggest in three different accents but all with one voice that they are a group to be taken very seriously and with relish.

A very enjoyable set and one in which no matter how disappointing the ending, All We Are stood up to the challenge and delivered their music with grace and flawlessly.

Ian D. Hall