Luke Spiller
Written and photographed by: Liv Foltiny
“Who are The Struts?” That’s something you’d likely hear me say if you asked me about the band a decade ago. At that time, I hadn’t really ventured into the world of music. My knowledge was limited (compared to that of my friends), and I didn’t listen to it regularly like I do now. That gradually began to change as I approached my mid-20s, though, as I started checking out music recommended to me here and there. By the time 2018 rolled around, I had a couple of favorite bands, and, thanks to my brother and 93.3 WMMR, I was able to add another group to my list later that year. That band, of course, was The Struts, the young British rock ’n’ roll group that continues to be one of my favorite bands to this day (nearly seven years later).
Expectedly, when The Struts announced a tour celebrating the 10-year anniversary of their debut album (Everybody Wants), I reached out to ThatMag’s editor, asking to cover the Philadelphia show on Aug. 23. Two days prior to the concert, I received the text I had been hoping for: “You’re good to go for The Struts”
Adam Slack
The night of the show, The Fillmore already had a decent-sized crowd shortly after its doors opened. Attendees conversed with each other, took pictures in front of the Jimi Hendrix bus, or purchased merch as a means of passing time before the evening’s celebration started. At 8 p.m., a majority of the concertgoers flocked to the floor in front of the stage to see the opening band, Dirty Honey.
Introduced by Jacky Bam Bam, Dirty Honey kicked things off just after 8 p.m. Playing 10 songs, including hits like When I’m Gone and Rolling 7s, the band excited the audience via raspy vocals, sharing the mic with attendees, dynamic gestures, and occasional hair flips. Even though they weren’t headlining, Dirty Honey didn’t take things easy; they put their full effort into their set and, in a matter of a few songs, had people singing along. By the time they finished their set, Dirty Honey had successfully energized everyone, guaranteeing they were prepared for what was to come.
Following a brief set change, local radio icon Pierre Robert took to the stage. Armed with a microphone and bathed in blue light, he addressed the crowd with his familiar, friendly voice:
“And welcome to The Fillmore from all of us at 93.3 WMMR! It’s a sold-out house tonight. Philly loves this band. It’s so great to watch them from the beginning and to listen to them grow and to see how amazing this particular band has evolved. It’s so special. We’re so grateful you’re here. Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of all of us at MMR, we loved this band right from the beginning. We’re continuing to love them. Turn them on to other people. Spread the word! Because everybody wants The Struts!”
With that, Adam, Gethin, Jed, and Luke took their places on stage and greeted the immense mass of people before them, which filled the first and second floors of the venue. Opening their set with Primadonna Like Me and Body Talks, The Struts enticed their fans and effectively built up to the nostalgic feature of the evening — an all-e an all-encompassing performance of their first album (Everybody Wants).
Gethin Davies
From Roll Up to Where Did She Go, The Struts took the audience back to their early days musically and lyrically. However, they did so utilizing the skills and self-confidence they’ve developed over time. As the lead vocalist of the group, Luke undeniably demonstrated his prowess as a frontman; his singing, energetic dancing, and charisma captured everyone’s attention. Furthermore, his powerful stage presence complemented that of his bandmates perfectly. Each member strutted across the stage throughout the night, ensuring that not a single part of it went unused. Adam and Jed, on guitar and bass respectively, moved frequently, standing together at certain points and stepping on speakers or kicking the air at others. Meanwhile, Gethin, despite being on a separate platform, contributed just as much to the energy emanating from the stage; his drum playing was full of passion and carried throughout the space.
Ultimately, the show was phenomenal and succeeded in paying tribute to Everybody Wants. It not only incorporated every track from the record but also included many elements conducive to a fantastic performance: personal stories, dancing, jumping, playfulness, and crowd interaction. Naturally, these aspects overlapped countless times and, consequently, generated heartfelt moments, ranging from the band expressing gratitude to offering inspirational advice.
One memorable instant that stood out in particular was when Luke spoke with a young fan directly. Upon learning that said fan was 10, Luke asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up and shared that he aspired to be a ballerina at that age. After lightheartedly exclaiming, “Life had other plans,” while gesturing toward his bandmates, Luke sincerely encouraged her to pursue her dreams, a gentle reminder that many of us likely need to hear.
Jed Elliot
The night came to an end a little before 11 p.m. following The Struts’ encore performance and thankful goodbyes. As everyone made their way to the exit, some decided to stop by the merch booth to purchase a tangible reminder of the celebration they experienced, something that symbolized how, even a decade later, everybody (still) wants The Struts.
Congratulations to The Struts on the 10-year anniversary of Everybody Wants!
You can follow and stay up-to-date on The Struts using the links below. Be sure to check out their upcoming rerelease of Could Have Been Me (featuring Brian May) on Sept. 3.
In the meantime, make sure you listen to Luke’s debut solo album, Love Will Probably Kill Me Before Cigarettes and Wine.
Luke Spiller
The Struts: Website |Instagram |Facebook |YouTube |Spotify
Luke Spiller : Love Will Probably Kill Me Before Cigarettes And Wine Listen on Spotify
