Call Upon The Author

I was surprised by how empty the NME Radar Tour was when I arrived, for Yes Giantess there was a small crowd supporting and enjoying the energetic performance, despite the vocalist’s keyboard having “exploded” before the set he improvised with a maraca. His witty banter to the audience opened for a brilliant show. Next, The Local Natives played a slightly more calm set which included a impressive cover of The Talking Heads as well as an incredible drum session towards the end where members of fellow bands joined in for a vigorous ending to the set. Throughout The Local Natives the room had begun to fill, I can only imagine this was in preparation for Marina and the Diamonds.
Marina entered the stage looking a little nervous but gorgeous in a sequined lace dress which by the look of all men in the audience was much appreciated, during the opening song you wouldn’t have noticed anything was the matter, however before performing “Seventeen” Marina shared that she had been ill that day and hoped we “didn’t think she was crap” which was followed by an applause from the audience encouraging her to continue. At this point it was clear to see that Marina simply wasn’t feeling right, although sung “Seventeen” with surprising energy and practically flawless vocals although unfortunately broke into tears at the end. With screams of “we love you” and “you’re beautiful” from the crowd Marina bravely attempted “I Am Not A Robot” but it seemed to prove a little too much and she swiftly exited the stage as the keyboard player politely stepped up and exclaimed “enjoy the Golden Silvers, we’re sorry” and Marina hopped into a taxi.
The disappointed crowd showed no signs of heckling, rudeness or hatred towards the singer and rightly so. Marina was ill, it happens to the best of us unfortunately it just had to be on this particular show. As swarms of fans left the venue outside there were rumours of a band member proposing to Marina and her emotions got the better of her, however it’s difficult to believe anyone in a room of half cut fans each with their own thoughts on the event. Then came the final act, The Golden Silvers who entered the stage with an impressive performance and the crowd didn’t seem to remember Marinas upset- hopefully her next visit to Portsmouth will be more successful.