Photo: Richard Gray

Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeros Tickets

"Holy shit London!", the opening remarks from Edward Sharpe as he takes to the stage is a fairly apt sentiment on the exuberance of tonight's gig. Brixton Academy is generally more familiar with mosh pits than square dancing, but tonight's country-fied gig has hoedowns happening spontaneously and grown men skipping around the venue.

Yet this is exactly what this ten strong band does to this South London crowd. Playing what seems like every conceivable instrument known to man and led by the preacher-like figure of Alex Ebert, the band set about making mileage out of their three albums, most notably their much acclaimed album of last year.

Yet each song feels like some sort of treat: the familiar yet rapturous '40 Day Dream', the truthful yet friendly lament of 'Life Is Hard' and the playfulness of the entire band taking verses in 'I don't Want To Pray' all show a level of charisma uncommon in a live act. The strength of this act in the band's performance is in part attributable to talent of all the musicians involved, but also in a large part through the interplay of the two singers.

While Alex Ebert flows around the stage, waving his arms like an anarchic conductor, his counterpart Jade Castrinos stands demurely to one side, occasionally swishing her long dress while belting out beautiful songs. Together their styles bounce off each other and together with supporting vocals sound more akin to a choir than a band - perfectly captured tonight in a cover of Nina Simone's 'Ain't Got No'.

As things round off with 'Let's Get High' and the inevitable yet still anthemic 'Home', it's clear why the audience reaction is more akin to that of a cult than a band. From soul to country to funk, they cover all bases with full gusto and style. Quite simply, I've not seen a better live act in many years and none that do it with so much passion. Superb.

Below: Exclusive photos of Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros rocking Brixton Academy