Gomez recently returned to their (almost) home town, with the majority of the original lineup living in and around the city. Having been fortunate enough to cover their 25th-anniversary opening show of Bring It On, I approached the pit with a lot of excitement to cover their Brighton leg of the new tour.

Buddy, a warm, funny, and interesting singer-songwriter from the USA, opened the show. He was fantastic with the crowd, keeping the full room engaged, and even ventured out into the audience—great to watch, but tricky to capture!

When Ian and Ben came on stage, the energy in the room changed. The silence of anticipation was almost deafening. I wasn’t sure how it would work with just two members, but they did it. Looking through the lens, I almost forgot there were more people last time; though they were missed, it was incredible just how much you can do when less needs more.

Ben’s voice is so unique and recognisable in an instant. With Ian’s in harmony, it was a delight to cover, and over too soon. Before I knew it, the magic door to the photo pit was opened and that was it.

Words and Images by Xavier Clarke, XC Photography UK With thanks to Lout Promotions.