What an absolute treat it was to see Divorce, the alt-country four-piece from Nottingham, live for the first time. They packed out the sold-out show at Strangebrew on the second night of their extensive tour, and the band delivered an unforgettable performance from start to finish. Some bands need years and multiple albums to hit their stride, but Divorce are already firing on all cylinders, with their stellar songwriting and infectious energy shining through on stage.
Their debut album, Drive to Goldenhammer, dropped just two weeks ago, and tracks like All My Freaks are destined to be summer anthems. The song’s uplifting, synth-driven chorus is a pure burst of sunshine, and hearing it live felt like stepping into a perfect summer day. The entire album exudes warmth and playfulness, with a fresh, unpretentious vibe that translated beautifully in their live performance. Drawing from pop, indie, and folk influences, it’s clear why the band likens their sound to a mix of Wilco and ABBA, an eclectic blend that gives them a unique place in today’s music scene.
The atmosphere of the night was electric, with the band bantering back and forth with each other and the crowd. Their playful energy broke down the usual barriers between the stage and the audience, creating a connection that felt both intimate and expansive. It was a reminder of the joy and camaraderie music can bring, making the entire experience feel like a shared celebration of life.
Tiger’s vocals are smooth and velvety, with a rich, euphonic tone that effortlessly draws you in. Paired with Felix’s soulful harmonies, Adam’s masterful guitar work, and Kasper’s dynamic drumming, the band creates a sound that is not only triumphant but deeply encapsulating, enveloping the listener in a wave of emotion and energy. Together, their seamless chemistry elevates every song, crafting a musical experience that lingers long after the last note fades.
It’s easy to see why Divorce is quickly becoming a standout act, and with their infectious stage presence, they are a perfect fit for the festival circuit this summer. I can easily picture them headlining at events like Green Man or playing to a massive crowd at Glastonbury, it’s only a matter of time before they hit that level of recognition.
They closed their set with their breakout hit, Checking Out, the track that first introduced me to the band when I heard it on BBC 6 Music in 2022. It’s still one of my most-played songs to this day. As the night came to a close and the crowd spilled out of the venue, there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Divorce isn’t just a band you see; they’re a band you remember.
Words: Jon Evans
Images: Cheyanne Jayne Manning
Cheyenne Jayne-Manning @scramsistermedia
Role: Photographer
I’m a professional photographer, and I love to shoot festivals, events, and gig-goers. I’m also an editor, specialising in music videos.
Qualification: BA (hons) in Documentary Film Making from the University of Newport.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots and Touring
First attended gig: One of the first gigs I ever went to on my own was Chase & Status in 2008. My mates and I covered ourselves in glow paint, only to sweat it off jumping and dancing. It was the start of my never-ending gig list.
First gig shot: Technically the first band I ever shot would have been my dad’s, at the age of 9! My mum gave me this giant tape camcorder and I filmed the entire thing. Since then, I’ve shot plenty of friends’ bands whilst co-managing the live music venue, Le Pub in Newport, and I haven’t stopped since.
Dream gig: CASisDEAD, Slow Club, Enter Shikari, Dizzee Rascal (in the Boy In The Corner era), Turnstile, and The Prodigy.
