Since the release of Dagger in February, Ist Ist have toured in mainland Europe and then have been touring around the UK. Last night they returned to Oran Mor and it was another fantastic show.
I met up with Michelle at Non Viet on Great Western Road. We had great food and drink arrived at the venue around 7.30pm. Just time enough for a few songs from support, The Youth Play. The sounded pretty good and I will check them out further.
A short break and we were on with the show. It was an early start. Under way at 8.15pm. Compared to November where the band seemed to have filled Oran Mor quite generously, last night there was room to move. It was a double-edged sword. On the one hand there was plenty of space for dancing and jumping about but by the same token it felt like the band should be packing out the place! What’s wrong with people?
A 22 song set kicked off with a trio of tracks from Dagger, ‘Encouragement,’ ‘Warning Signs’ and ‘Burning.’ Two from previous album Light a Bigger Fire followed: ‘Lost My Shadow’ and ‘The Kiss.’ Another couple of Dagger tracks were performed thereafter – ‘The Echo’ and ‘Makes No Difference.’
From there, the setlist was filled with a fine collection of the best from Ist Ist, ending with an encore of Dagger opening track and lead single ‘I am the Fear’ along with opener from Protagonists, ‘Stamp You Out.’ Mindful of their fans, they were off stage at 9.40pm. I was thankful for knowing I’d easily make the 10.33pm train to Ashfield.
Hell’s bells, this band are fucking amazing! If you get the chance, go see them! You really won’t be disappointed.

Setlist souvenir photo features the fabulous Chloe who I’ve seen at every Ist Ist gig I’ve been to so far. Every time I see them I can’t wait to see them again. I hope it won’t be too long before the next time.
Next up is Brooke Combe at St Luke’s on Thursday.
