Following their success of their singles over the last year, The Last Dinner Party’s long-awaited debut album, Prelude to Ecstasy, has been recently released. The Last Dinner Party, a group who formed in 2021 and found their way into the industry among the smaller venues of London, consists of five members: Abigail Morris on lead vocals; Lizzie Mayland on rhythm guitar; Emily Roberts on lead guitar; Georgia Davies on bass and Aurora Nishevci on keyboard. Their popularity has only continued to increase, resulting in sold out shows across Europe and the US.
The title, Prelude to Ecstasy, gives the impression of classical but rock, theatrical yet ethereal. I did not know what to expect as I began to listen to this album, particularly as I had very little prior knowledge surrounding the band. Whilst I wasn’t certain on the genre, the style, or simply the tone of their music, I was completely enchanted from the moment the song “Prelude to Ecstasy” began. Opening the album in a cinematic and dramatic way captures the tone for the entire album.
Moving through the compelling and dark lyrics of “Burn Alive” to the powerful tonal changes in “Caesar on a TV Screen,” the album encapsulates the power from the beginning. Others such as “Feminine Urge” and ‘Nothing Matters” encapsulate feelings of feminine rage and desire, which arguably undertones each song on the album. The songs are enigmatic, passionate and bold. They hold space and they do not apologise for it. Even if you aren’t searching for the high energy of the main ballads, and looking for a song to reach in and rip your heart out, “On Your Side” may be more up your street.
I was completely enchanted from the moment the song “Prelude to Ecstasy” began.
The Last Dinner Party adopt a Renaissance style for their debut album, but as mentioned in an interview, the band plan to change aesthetic and evolve with new music. I am excited to see what may be next in store for this new but completely captivating band.
