I remember stumbling upon The 1975 during their numerous EP releases—’Sex’ was the first track I obsessively hit repeat. The title was promiscuous, jump-starting a new wave of alternative-indie to add to my repertoire. That was nearly six years ago, the band was shoved into a bombardment of success soon after with their hit single “Chocolate.” It was catchy, emphasizing on the overwhelming boredom in small-town lives, searching for a means to entertain one’s self.
They’ve come a long way since then, releasing their third album ‘A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships,’ ultimately exploring the depths of modern society and its connection with online validation. Earning themselves critically acclaimed success, The 1975 show no signs of slowing down. There comes a time when a band or musician pops up on the charts, dominates every corner of social media, and demands a certain level of attention. Their presence becomes almost catastrophic—they could possibly rule the world if they wielded that power with some authority. But the Manchester band have culminated their strength just enough, allowing them security in a ruthless business.
Witnessing the group on stage is enthralling, oozing a sense of confidence only a band of rising prominence can emanate. Frontman Matt Healy is surrounded by a magnetic field, you can’t help but draw closer to him, wanting to breathe in every inkling of passion. Pop music can become generic, every hit drudging on with the same beat. But The 1975 have created something different, delving into a kind of pop that unveils vulnerability and realism.
It’s evident Healy loves his music, admires his craft and takes the time to sort out the image he wants to portray. There’s a bit of pretentiousness that goes along with it—some might believe that to be a turn-off but ultimately it’s an advantage. On stage, the 30-year-old dances freely, walking along a treadmill while he sings one of the band’s hits ‘Sincerity Is Scary,’ a song ironically about fearing openheartedness. Healy doesn’t seem to be scared of speaking frankly—he passionately denounces religious beliefs against LGBTQ rights and gets candid about needing stricter gun laws. It brings a sense of comfort, security in the fact he wants to live in a safe home just like the rest of us.
Images of political and social issues flash on the screen behind Healy’s head while he belts ‘Love It If We Made It,’ a track pleading for the young generation to keep fighting for a better world. It’s a bold statement especially for a band in this social media age, always gorging on validation and striving to belong. The 1975 aren’t afraid to dive into those controversial waters, using their platform to better a society that thrives on an ideology of hate. It seeps into their art and on the center stage, singing along with hopeful millennials, searching for themselves.
With a colorful, bright, and devastatingly real show, The 1975 deliver a sense of hope to those looking to be inspired. They’ve worked tirelessly to become what they are—a no. 1 band creating intelligent, thought-provoking work alongside a dedicated fanbase itching to take on the patriarchy.
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