Aussie Indie-Rock Trio DMA’s headed to Manchester’s The Yard for an intimate record store show in association with Piccadilly Records.

All live photography by Sub Khan. You can find more of his excellent work on Instagram, here.

DMAS!

Opening with Killing Time, fans sing the lyrics from the get go, under the glow of the fairy lights outside. The acoustic rendition adds a new life to the track. Johnny Took’s acoustic guitar carrying the song, accompanied by Tommy O’Dell’s soft vocals. It was interesting to see the band in a calmer setting compared to their usual high-energy shows. The performance was met with a huge applause and had the crowd chanting “DMAS!”

“We’re gonna play an older one,” Johnny says before leading into The Glow, which particularly stands out as a fan favourite. You could really see how dedicated their fanbase is, which the band finds “crazy” considering they’re from Australia. This song fit the acoustic set perfectly acoustic guitar played delicately. Matt Mason plays the guitar interestingly.

HEATIN PARK

Next up was Heatin Park, where DMA’s proved that the track can sound just as amazing when stripped back acoustically. O’Dell’s vocals were particularly strong here, creating a contrast to his softer tone on the previous tracks. Matt Mason’s backing vocals worked beautifully alongside O’Dell’s, the two voices complementing each other effortlessly.

“Shoutout to the Yard how good is this?!”

“Here’s another old one!” called out Johnny as they launch into Silver. The crowd’s response was so overpowering that it was almost as loud as Tommy’s voice. It was clear how much the band appreciates the support from fans, with Johnny singing with fans and creating a genuine connection with them.

SECOND HOME

“It’s a pleasure to be back in Manchester, it’s becoming our second home now,” and the fans gave them the warmest welcome. My Baby’s Place is the epitome of an acoustic track. Backed again by Mason’s vocals, the track sounded identical to the recorded version. 

Another track from the new album was Emailz, opening with a guitar hook from Mason and O’Dell’s bold vocals. Despite the track only being a few days old, the crowd did not let that hold them back from singing along. 

Hurracane instantly connects with the fans. It carries such a strong meaning, yet sounds so beautiful live. Emotional and personal lyricism taken from the studio to the crowd, added a new sound to the track. 

Step Up The Morphine felt like anthem for celebrating life, and the crowd seemed to offer a sense of comfort to the band, singing back every lyric with such passion. The track takes a different perspective on life and shines a positive light on experiencing loss. The raw emotion embodied on the recorded track sounds just as authentic live.

FRESH & TIMELESS

“The album felt like a real coming home album for us,” they shared, before playing the single: Concrete. Mason’s harmonising vocals blended beautifully with the rest of the band on this track. 

Feels Like 37 closed the set, feeling fresh and timeless since its release in 2019. There wasn’t a single silent person in the crowd. Arms were in the air, phone torches lit up the room, and every lyric was sung back to the band. 

“Thank you so much for everything you guys have given us. You have changed our lives. We love you.” The band said before leaving the stage. This wasn’t a goodbye, this was a farewell. In February, DMA’s return to their second home for their headline UK tour.

DMA’s have cemented their status within the indie-rock scene, proving once again that their music resonates with audiences and creates a genuine connection between the band and their fans. 

DMA’s: Website

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