When a band breaks up, it’s never on the “correct” terms. Life gets in the way and people grow apart. You don’t usually get a do-over. That was not the case for Million Dead. After meeting for the first time in 20 years, the band realised they wanted to say a proper goodbye on their own terms, bringing the original lineup back on stage for the first and last time since 2005. The London legends returned home to the Electric Ballroom for a final goodbye, ending their eight-show tour where it all started, in Camden Town.
The post-hardcore quintet stormed the stage as if they had only broken up yesterday, blasting through greatest hits such as ‘I Am The Party’ and deep cuts like ‘Tonight, Matthew’ alike, proving these songs still stand the test of time. They were welcomed with open arms and a warm hug from the London crowd, all in clear amazement at the chance to see the much-loved act once again on a stage.
The show felt like a proper send-off to a band missed by many. Original and new fans alike moshed and sang at the top of their lungs in a final triumph that felt as emotional for the band as it was for the audience. Vocalist Frank Turner noted that this was the biggest show the band had ever played, and it was clear he was still in disbelief in the face of the reaction they received. This was also the last ever show for drummer Ben Dawson, who decided to quit playing after this run.
Opening the show were The St Pierre Snake Invasion. The Bristol-based outfit held nothing back and delivered one of the best performances I have seen in a while. Fiery, passionate, and abrasive, they tore through songs from their latest record Galore. This tour marked their first shows with their new lineup, though they felt right at home. During one song, guitarist Mel Pereira stormed the crowd, shredding back and forth with frantic energy. Vocalist Damien Sayell gave a heartfelt speech about his recent health issues and dedicated their last song to the band members’ children, boldly declaring that he was no longer afraid to die and was looking forward to the future.
The Meffs took the stage as direct support. They had been playing with Million Dead for the entire run, and it was apparent how honoured they were to play their part in this momentous occasion. While being only a duo, Lily Hopkins stomped on stage with the wrath and energy of an entire armada, tearing through punchy riffs backed by drummer Lewis Copsey’s thunderous beats. Their excitement clearly affected the crowd, with many smiling faces singing along and cheering for a band that is on the rise and not planning to stop any time soon.
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds 
The Meffs @ Electric Ballroom – photo by Jonathan Dadds
Seeing Million Dead for the first and last time felt like being let into a family gathering or a best-kept secret — a heartfelt celebration of London’s hardcore scene and of life itself. It was truly astonishing to witness how honoured and humbled the band were by the reaction they received, making this a night that will be remembered long after the final chord rang out.
