In a sea of people, a fever was spreading. But this was no ordinary fever, it made people dance! The Manchester based five-piece, Sea Fever, were to blame of course. Formed by members from iconic UK bands such as New Order, Sea Fever brought a familiar, yet fresh impression to the Deaf Institute. And on a cold December night, this fever was much needed.
Introducing Sea Fever were Stepford Wives, a six-piece alternative/punk band who made sure to leave a lasting impression. Blending post-punk and art rock, the band certainly brought the energy and the atmosphere, ensuring all eyes were on them in the close-knit venue. Their eccentricity and chaotic synchrony were truly not to be
missed.
Upon Stepford Wives exit, Sea Fever emerged in a quick turnaround. With smoke filling the room accompanied by flashes of red and gold, their entrance was far from subtle. Starting off strong with Crossed Wires, the crowd were immediately infatuated, showcasing the band’s ability to craft a unique sound which deeply resonates. From their most recent 2025 album, Surface Sound, the band performed Able Eyes, which shed light on a new direction for the band. Bassist Tom Chapman emerged into his element with substantial bass beats, complimenting Beth Cassidy’s ethereal
vocals.
With quick transitions between songs, the pace heightened and the room bounced with electricity, seeing increased dancing, singing and overall unpredictability. Folding Lines, the 2021 album’s title track, served as a testament to the band’s creative vision, imploring ambient tones and a blend of psychedelic sounds. With a slight groove mixed with a synthetic melody, Beth Cassidy and frontman Iwan Gronow harmonised vocals to form a smooth yet striking piece. Although quiet between songs, Gronow encouragingly gestured the audience to sing which bridged the connection between the band and their audience.
The eclectic and conductive energy remained with Loose Cut with its pulsating beats and ramped up pace, creating a vibrant yet brooding vibe. Cassidy implemented a quirky component to the song as she sang through a megaphone while the crowd danced and cheered. This dancing fever soon spread to the seated benches, with many now standing, swaying and bouncing.
Bringing the main set to a triumphant close with Built to Last, drummer Elliot Barlow kept the buzz alive with a drum break, erupting cheers from the crowd. The band departed the stage among cries of “One last song!” from adrenaline-filled fans. The crowd’s pleas were answered as the band returned for a two-song encore of Go to Ground before finishing with fan-favourite De Facto, where energy remained unmatched.
For a band which blends iconic music history in every member, Sea Fever feels like a breath of fresh air. Their bold and genre-blending sound combines a sense of familiarity with unique innovations, weaving something solely their own.
WORDS BY ANNA TORRANCE
PHOTO CREDIT – NEIL WINWARD
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