Album Review: The Last Dinner Party - "From The Pyre"

If you’re ready to dive into a sonic journey that blends baroque pop, art rock, and indie vibes, then hold on tight! The Last Dinner Party has just fired up the music scene with their latest release,"From The Pyre," a thrilling follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut, “Prelude to Ecstasy.”Released on Friday 17th October, this sophomore album shows the band evolving with a sound that is both fresh and familiar, solidifying their place as pioneers in the current music landscape.

For those who might be new to the scene, The Last Dinner Party is made up of an incredibly talented five-piece lineup: Abigail Morris (vocals), Lizzie Mayland (vocals, guitar), Emily Roberts (lead guitar, mandolin, flute), Georgia Davies(bass), and Aurora Nishevci (keyboards, vocals). With a catchy blend of influences and a rapidly growing fan base (hello, 3.6 million Spotify monthly listeners!), it’s no wonder they’re turning heads and selling out shows left and right.

Let’s get into the heart of the album! The opening track, "Agnus Dei," sets the tone with haunting harmonies that draw you in immediately. It feels like being wrapped in a velvet blanket, both cozy and ominous, leading perfectly into what follows.

The first single, "This Is The Killer Speaking," stands out as a highlight. The lyrics grip you with an eerie intensity “You look like a weeping saint with your infected eye” while the rhythmic beats and catchy chorus promise to be a live show-stopper. You can already picture the crowd singing along, arms in the air, getting lost in the song’s dark charm.

“Second Best” takes a more operatic turn, bursting with stomping beats reminiscent of “Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody” meets Sparks' “This town ain’t big enough for the both of us.” Its intro grabs your attention with soaring harmonies, creating a sense of grandeur that only builds momentum as it progresses. The blend of theatricality with catchy hooks is pure gold, showcasing the band's knack for marrying the bold with the relatable.

Then there's “The Scythe,” which starts off deceptively slow, fooling you into thinking it’s a ballad. But don't be fooled the moment the drums kick in, you’re taken on a wild ride filled with electronic twists and soaring guitar riffs. It brilliantly captures the essence of the album’s narrative flair, think storyline intertwined with melody.

Now, let’s talk themes! The title track, "From The Pyre," introduces us to a world filled with evocative imagery: rifles, saints, cowboys, and apocalyptic heartbreak. The band describes this album as a collection of stories exploring commonplace events pushed to extremes. It’s a clever way to introspect on life’s chaos, and their use of metaphor feels both artful and grounded.

The concept of a place “with violence and destruction but also regeneration, passion, and light” brings depth to the music, making it more than just a collection of songs. It’s a journey, an experience that resonates personally while touching on universal themes. You can hear the maturity in their songwriting—growth is evident.

As you listen, you can practically feel the chemistry built over countless months of touring and studio sessions with Grammy-winning producer Markus Dravs. The album blends rich orchestral elements with rock and electronic influences, creating a soundscape that feels lush and diverse. You can hear echoes of their earlier work while also feeling that they are unafraid to explore new territories. It’s a tricky balance to strike, but they’ve done it effortlessly.

The Verdict:

With " From The Pyre," The Last Dinner Party has crafted a record that is fresh, exciting, and layered with depth. The mix of haunting melodies, clever lyrics, and energetic choruses keeps listeners on their toes. It’s clear they’re not just resting on their laurels but are committed to evolving as artists.

This album showcases their unique blend of styles and storytelling prowess, making it a must-listen for fans old and new. If their previous records had us curious, this one will have us completely captivated, riding the waves of their musical evolution.

The Last Dinner Party is not just getting started; they’re just hitting their stride, and you don’t want to miss this ride! Grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get lost in the magic of “From The Pyre.”

You can catch the girls live on their UK and Ireland 2025 Headline Tour Dates:

14th November – 3Arena, Dublin

17th November – Corn Exchange, Edinburgh

18th November - Barrowland, Glasgow

20th November – O2 City Hall, Newcastle

21st November – Octagon, Sheffield

23rd November – Bridlington Spa, Bridlington

25th November – UEA, Norwich

26th November – Aviva Studios, Manchester

29th November – The Civic Hall, Wolverhampton

30th November – The Prospect Building, Bristol - SOLD OUT

2nd December – Utilita Arena, Cardiff

4th December – Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth

5th December – Brighton Centre, Brighton

7th December – O2 Academy Brixton, London - SOLD OUT

8th December – O2 Academy Brixton, London

Tickets available from all usual outlets.