Love and Rockets, the iconic British alternative rock band, recently performed in Los Angeles at what may have been their final show ever. The concert was held at the historic Ace Hotel in DTLA, with an excited crowd eagerly awaiting the arrival of their musical heroes. The opening band, Automatic, set the stage for a night of unforgettable music that, start to finish, had fans out of their seat dancing to the beat for nearly 3 full hours.
Automatic’s opening set was a refreshing mix of edgy post-punk with driving rhythms and catchy melodies. The band’s energy was infectious, and the crowd responded with enthusiasm to every song. The trio (Izzy Glaudini, Halle Saxon, Lola Dompé) showcased their talent with tracks from their albums Signal (2019) and Excess (2022) including “Calling It” and “Suicide in Texas,” both of which were crowd favorites. These ladies rocked the Ace and were truly a breath of fresh air in a cookie cutter world filled with the same ol’ same ol’. I’m excited for their continued success and upward trajectory in the not so distant future.
As the stage was set for Love and Rockets, anticipation grew among a now packed audience. The band emerged to thunderous applause and launched into a captivating rendition of “I Feel Speed” off their 1989 self-titled LP. The synergy and stage presence between band members Daniel Ash, David J, and Kevin Haskins was palpable, their chemistry honed over decades of playing together both with Love and Rockets as well as Bauhaus was on full display. After just one song, fans in attendance knew this show was going to be something special.
Love and Rockets played a diverse set list—18-songs in total—spanning their near 40-year career, including hits such as “So Alive” (with Sharon Robinson), “No New Tale To Tell, and” Mirror People.” The audience sang along to each and every song, proving that Love and Rockets’ music has withstood the test of time and continues to resonate with fans today. The band also played some lesser-known tracks, delighting long-time fans who appreciated the deep cuts on a special night here in The City of Angels.
Throughout the show, the band displayed a level of musicianship that can only come from years of experience. Daniel Ash’s distinctive guitar sound was on full display with soaring solos and intricate riffs that showed just how skilled a player he is. Meanwhile, David J’s bass lines provided the backbone of the band’s sound, laying down grooves that had the entire audience dancing. And Kevin Haskins’ drumming was a masterclass in precision and power, driving the songs forward with unrelenting energy.
One of the highlights of the show for me was during their first encore with the emotional rendition of “Holiday on the Moon” off 1986’s Express. The boys were once again accompanied on stage once by the amazing Sharon Robinson, but this time had Lola Dompé, Izzy Glaudini, and Regan Catam join them for a fan-favorite that has become an anthem for many Love and Rockets fans. As the band played, the crowd swayed along, singing every word with passion. It was clear that the song had a special meaning for both the band and the audience, and it was a powerful moment that brought the entire venue together.
As the concert drew to a close, it was clear that Love and Rockets had given their all on Wednesday night. They closed with a rousing version of “Love Me,” “Ball of Confusion,” and finally “Sweet F.A.” leaving the audience cheering for more. As they left the stage after their final curtain call, it was hard not to feel a sense of sadness, knowing that this may have been the last time we would see them perform live.
Love and Rockets’ final performance was a fitting tribute to their legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the alternative rock era. The band’s music has inspired countless artists and fans over the years, and their influence can still be heard in the music of many contemporary bands. If this was indeed their final show, Love and Rockets can rest assured that they went out on a high note. Their performance was a testament to their enduring talent and dedication to their craft. And for the fans lucky enough to be in attendance, it was a night that will never be forgotten.
AUTOMATIC
