It’s one thing to go to a concert and hear songs you’ve lived with; it’s another to stand alongside your daughter, sharing the music that means so much to her. This was the essence of our family trip to see London Grammar concert live at London’s O2—a night of incredible music and meaningful moments.
London Grammar, an English indie pop trio formed in Nottingham in 2009, consists of Hannah Reid (vocals), Dan Rothman (guitar), and Dominic “Dot” Major (keyboard, djembe, drums). Their name reflects their London base, a nod to their UK roots. Over the years, they’ve released four studio albums: If You Wait (2013), Truth Is a Beautiful Thing (2017), Californian Soil (2021), and The Greatest Love (2024). Their most recent two albums topped the UK album charts.
I’ve known London Grammar’s songs from kitchen sessions and car journeys, but hearing them live at the O2 was something else entirely. The atmosphere of a London Grammar concert is hard to beat, with their music filling the vast space of the O2 Arena while still feeling deeply personal.
Opening the concert was Lauren Mayberry, formerly of Chvrches. Promoting her forthcoming solo album, her mix of pop anthems and introspective tracks was a perfect way to start the evening. Although her music was new to me, she had the crowd in the palm of her hand, setting the stage beautifully for London Grammar.
As the lights dimmed, London Grammar stepped onto a backlit stage, opening with Hey Now from their 2013 debut album If You Wait. Hannah Reid’s voice soared through the arena, showcasing the depth and power that have defined the band’s sound.
The concert’s setlist was carefully crafted, blending older classics with newer favourites. Tracks like Californian Soil from their 2021 album of the same name showcased their evolving sound, while their cover of Kavinsky’s NightCall added a fresh twist to the night. The first set reached its peak with a stunning rendition of Hell to the Liars, leaving us in awe.
One standout moment came during You and I. Hannah encouraged the audience to join her in some vocal exercises, showcasing her incredible range. It felt like a great opportunity to participate, but as the notes soared, most of us stayed quiet—not out of shyness, but simply because we didn’t want to drown out her extraordinary voice.
In a clever transition, London Grammar moved to a smaller satellite stage near the mixing desk. From this intimate setting, they played a gorgeous acoustic rendition of All My Love. As the song ended, a mobile phone started ringing, prompting us to check their own devices—only for a large message to appear on the screen: “Fakest Bitch is calling.” This led seamlessly into their latest track, a sharp and biting commentary delivered with incredible energy. The lyrics, as always, cut deep:
“I saw your mom across the road, I feel guilt, and it hurts my soul
Maybe if she loved your dad, you’d have the things that you should have had
And we’d be friends for real, not popping party pills.”
Returning to the main stage, London Grammar picked up the tempo as George Fitzgerald joined for the remainder of the set. The energy was electric as the band played Baby It’s You, You and I, Wasting My Young Years, and Metal & Dust to close the main set.
But the concert wasn’t over yet. London Grammar returned for an encore, performing Strong before ending the night with Lose Your Head. Lauren Mayberry joined them onstage, bringing the house down in a triumphant finale.
This was an unforgettable concert with an incredible British band. While Hannah Reid’s vocals are undeniably the star—moving effortlessly from soulful depth to raw emotion—the full band brings their music to life in a way that wouldn’t be the same without each member’s contribution.
I’m so glad to have seen London Grammar on this tour, and I can’t wait to see them again.
London Grammar Concert at the O2 – Set List
- Hey Now
- Californian Soil
- Kind of Man
- Big Picture
- Nightcall (Kavinsky cover)
- Lord It’s a Feeling
- House
- How Does It Feel
- Hell to the Liars
Satellite Stage
- All My Love (Acoustic)
- Fakest Bitch (Acoustic)
Main Stage
- Baby It’s You (with George FitzGerald)
- You and I
- Wasting My Young Years
- Metal & Dust
Encore
- Strong
- Lose Your Head (with Lauren Mayberry) (Outro with Camelphat remix)
Are you a fan of London Grammar? Did you see them live? Do let me know in the comments!