The Zangwills reach “New Heights” at Manchester Academy 3, 17th September 2021.

The Zangwills

Jake Vickers – vocals/guitar/keyboard

Sam Davies – lead guitar 

Ed Dowling – bass 

Adam Spence – drums

The Zangwills reached “New Heights” at Manchester Academy 3. Sunny Manchester was the setting for the Zangwills’ headliner event at Academy 3. This is some venue for any band, and a compliment indeed.  Manchester Academy has hosted some iconic and now legendary performers and is a great venue for both bands and fans alike, though the Zangwills have played up and down the country at countless venues and festivals, so have earned their place. 

The Zangwills formed in 2017, releasing their debut single “New Heights‘, now a firm favourite with their (many) followers, and has become somewhat of an anthem.  After only a short time of being able to attend live music events, this was one to look forward to. The atmosphere on the famous streets of Manchester, lined with its art nouveau buildings, was alive with anticipation. Fans milled about smiling, wearing Zangwills t-shirts and you could feel the excitement building, all knowing, like I, that this was going to be a gig to remember. We weren’t wrong! 

The Zangwills_Credit:Warren_Millar

These guys are “too cool” and fans flock from all over to see them. I spoke to some who’d actually travelled up from London specially.  This band have a loyal and dedicated fan base.  I  personally have seen the Zangwills many times and never tire of them, they keep it fresh and alive every time.   This was to be Adam’s (Spence’s) return to performing drums after injury, and what a welcome back!  The most recent release was “Judas on the DanceFloor’‘.  A very atmospheric and dark indie electro piece, highlighting the problem of groping and harassment on packed dance floors in clubs and in crowds at gigs.  These guys care about their fans. 

The Zangwills_Credit:Warren_Millar

The Zangwills have an eclectic, eccentric, very cool style: clever storytelling in the lyrics; snappy and edgy, diverse song styles which all differ from each other but are all instantly recognisable as theirs. Brilliantly original and memorable, ranging from indie pop/rock to electro pop, all translating seamlessly into live performance. These guys can play!  Combining jangly guitar riffs, banging bass and vibrant drumming styles. Jake‘s (Vickers’) vocals are strong, raspy, unwavering and at times gravelly with a real twist.  Jessica Lees joined the band on backing vocals for this performance, adding another layer of dimension, which made the songs even more atmospheric. They start to play, you’re hooked.   The fans eagerly interact with vigour during every song in a packed outhouse. The energy these guys put into their performance is commendable, they clearly love what they do.  Jake (Vickers) is the ultimate frontman, oozing style and charisma and had that audience hanging from every word he sings: high kicks, writhing on the floor, throwing his guitar around, interacting with the crowd at every opportunity.  It’s completely intoxicating and the fans love it. Songs like “212” and “Could I” show off Jake’s wide vocal skills and whip the crowd into a frenzy, only to be magnified by songs like “Patio Paradise”and”Sunlight at Midnight”.

As the set ended (the time flew by) we were all left hanging…and chanting, for an encore. It went through the roof!  Coming back on with “New Heights”, the crowd erupted. The place had been bouncing all night, but this was another level. Finishing on the biggest high, they left the stage leaving a very satisfied audience and were gracious enough to hang around afterwards to meet fans, sign merch and chat.   

The Zangwills_Credit:Warren_Millar

Four great, talented, stylish guys and ones to watch!  I always look forward to seeing the Zangwills and each performance seems better than the last. This was no exception.  One of the best gigs I’ve been to. I can’t recommend seeing these guys enough.  Epic performance, epic night, epic band. Thank you, the Zangwills, and I look forward to seeing you again very soon.

Words By Janet Harding 

Images By Warren Millar