Review: The Last Dinner Party – Prelude to Ecstasy

In a year bursting with exceptional music, The Last Dinner Party’s Prelude to Ecstasy stands out as a remarkable debut. Though some critics speculate about the band's origins and label them as potential "industry plants," these discussions don’t diminish the album’s impact. At the heart of this discourse is "Nothing Matters," a track that many, including myself, believe could be one of the best songs of the year.

The Last Dinner Party’s rapid rise has been nothing short of meteoric. With just a handful of tracks released, they’ve been selling out gigs and drawing praise from notable figures like Florence Welch and Garth Crooks. Despite rumors and speculation about them being “industry plants,” their rapid success seems to be more about their undeniable talent and relentless preparation during the Covid years. Their carefully curated live shows, which include themed dress codes like Victoriana and Velvet Goldmine, have set them apart and fostered a unique sense of community among their fans.

Tracks like "My Lady of Mercy" shift from sophisticated 80s pop to hard-rock intensity, while "Sinner" transitions from staccato piano to Franz Ferdinand-esque post-punk. The album’s rhythmic and stylistic transitions are handled with impressive fluidity, ensuring that each song flows seamlessly into the next.

While some moments, such as the timpani-laden "Mirror" and the musical-theatre-esque "Beautiful Boy," might veer toward the theatrical, Prelude to Ecstasy largely avoids feeling excessive. The album is filled with well-crafted songs and fantastic choruses, including not just "Nothing Matters," but also "Feminine Urge," and "Burn Alive."

As a fully-formed debut, the challenge for The Last Dinner Party will be to evolve their sound and image without losing the spark that makes them unique. However, Prelude to Ecstasy suggests they have more than enough creativity and confidence to keep pushing boundaries and delivering captivating music.

The Last Dinner Party’s Prelude to Ecstasy is a dazzling debut that showcases their ambitious vision and impressive musicality. Their ability to blend genres, create striking visuals, and write memorable songs positions them as a band to watch closely. Their confidence and creativity are evident, and if this debut is any indication, they are poised to continue making waves in the music industry.