2024 is the year of the lesbian renaissance with artists like Chappell Roan, Arlo Parks and G Flip contributing. But what sets G Flip apart is their drum playing and the energy that they bring to their music. G Flip’s Drummer Tour Continued had its penultimate UK show at the Manchester Albert Hall and I was lucky enough to catch this show: and they did not disappoint.
After an amazing supporting set from Mercer Henderson, the crowd began to chant G’s name as they walked onto the stage, beelining straight to the drum set positioned high in a spotlight, launching straight into a high-octane drum solo. Framed by a huge poster hung at the back of the stage, displaying thank yous to their friends and family, first ever drum teacher and to the drums themselves. It was a touching way to honour them each show.
G Flip provided inclusive rules for their show that resonated with the crowd, creating a safe environment: they even had their team put up gender neutral toilet signs making a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA+ fans.
Highlights of the evening for me included G Flip's exhilarating drum performances, particularly during ‘7 Days‘ and the percussion-heavy section featuring four lower tom-tom drums at the front of the stage playing along with their band mates. The artist's ability to engage the audience was evident as they moved energetically across the stage, creating a captivating spectacle.
A unique moment came when G Flip joined the upstairs crowd, walking around the seating area and interacting with fans, including those in accessible seating. This personal touch added a special dimension to the performance.
As the show drew to a close, G Flip expressed their gratitude to the audience, acknowledging the emotional impact of the tour's conclusion. The encore featured a cover of ‘Cruel Summer‘ with she/her pronouns which went down a treat with the crowd. It started out with G playing drums and singing which is an impressive skill they show off a few times during the show.
Something G does near the end of every show is to give out free signed merch to the crowd member who was singing the loudest, dancing the most and bringing the most energy. But the Manchester crowd made it difficult to choose as they noted that the front row was made up of familiar faces, fans who’ve been at most of the UK shows, these same fans linked hands during ‘2 Million‘ causing G to tear up. It's clear how much the support really means to G Flip, especially the UK fans who are Gs largest support base outside of Australia.
G Flip has an impeccable power in creating a unique, talented and mesmerising experience, topped with a warm blanket of inclusivity through connection with their fans.
WORDS & PHOTOS KATE LEATHER
Comments