Review: The Horrors mesmerise at Worthing Pavilion Theatre

The band’s iconic frontman Faris Badwan, suitably dressed head-to-toe in black, cut an impressive – almost vampiric – figure in the smoky haze of the theatre.

Aside from a gracious thank you here and there, and the odd line of chat, interaction with the crowd was kept to a minimum. Instead, the pulsating, bass-heavy, electro-tinged brand of psychedelic rock the Southend five-piece are known for kept a devoted crowd mesmerised. Hypnotic rhythms, euphoric synths and layered guitar parts turned the historic Pavilion into a dark goth-rock club of sorts.

Opener Chasing Shadows, was made to be played live. More than two-and-a-half minutes of effects, guitar scratching and suspense broke into life and the momentum of the set didn’t let up from there.

Guitarist Joshua Hayward’s fretwork impressed throughout gig, adding light, shade and the occasional wailing solo to the band’s palette.

As expected, the strongest reaction was reserved for the hooks of Still Life and Endless Blue from third album Skying, So Now You Know from latest album Luminous and an epic version of Moving Further Away which closed the band’s encore.

Strobe lights flashed and lasers danced throughout the gig, combining to make a visual spectacle that complemented the band’s sound perfectly.

If promoters One Inch Badge continue to bring top quality acts like The Horrors to Worthing, those living in the town are in for a treat.

Support on the night came courtesy of Anglo-Welsh kraut-rockers Telegram.