Paris, Abi and Alicia – better known as The Adelaides – have built a reputation for solid harmonies and sweet vocals since their live debut at Country Music Week 2017. Since then they’ve performed at C2C, Nashville Meets London and Black Deer Festival, and toured alongside artists including Catherine McGrath and Ashley Campbell. Last night they returned to where it all began – Borderline in London – to open for Eric Paslay as part of Country Music Week.
The trio arrived on stage shortly after 7pm and opened their set with a mash-up of Beyoncé’s Daddy Lessons and Dolly Parton classic Jolene. They’re known for their clever cover versions and this was another great example. I thought the arrangement of the two songs worked really well and their lush harmonies were at the forefront from the off.
However, for the rest of their performance the girls stuck to their original songs, including the atmospheric storytelling of I’d Do It Again, the yearning What Your Heart Would Say and the soulful, bittersweet Out Of My Mind. They also had great chemistry together on stage, cracking jokes and telling the stories behind their songs, and encouraged the crowd to join in on their a capella rendition of Only Thing Left To Do Is Leave.
One thing I particularly enjoyed about the set was that each band member got a chance to shine. Whether it was Paris’ guitar playing and huge notes, Alicia’s impressive vocal runs or Abi’s husky, bluesy tones, they all had their moments in the sun and frequently exchanged lines on songs like the stomping, lively Play It Cool. Whilst for me they’re at their strongest singing together, it’s nice to see them all getting an opportunity to showcase their strengths.
The trio ended their performance with Jelly Baby, a cheeky kiss-off to an ex-boyfriend about a particular part of his anatomy. It’s become a staple of their live shows and for me sums up their style perfectly, with sharp cheeky lyrics, a catchy melody and plenty of sass. The crowd were clapping along throughout and gave them a volley of applause at the end.
Overall the Adelaides delivered a confident and polished set with beautiful harmonies and some nice pop and R’n’B touches. Their performance put me in mind of 90s girl groups like Destiny’s Child, but with a country twist,and I loved the bond they have with each other too. For me they’re one of the most promising acts on the UK country scene and I’m definitely intrigued to see where they go next.
Set list: 1. Daddy Lessone/Jolene (Beyoncé/Dolly Parton cover) 2. I’d Do It Again 3. What Your Heart Would Say 4. Only Thing Left To Do Is Leave 5. Play It Cool 6. Out Of My Mind 7. Jelly Baby Performance date: 25th October 2018
