LIVE REVIEW: Better Joy @ Gorilla, Manchester

Over the last 5 years, Better Joy, the project of Bria Keely, has gradually stoked the flames of Manchester’s indie scene. Introspective and emotionally raw lyrics have crafted a unique sound that lies somewhere between The Strokes and Phoebe Bridgers. The final few months of last year saw the release of her second EP ‘at dusk’, shortly followed by a tour announcement with a run of dates across the UK and Ireland. BOOT caught up with her at her hometown show in the iconic Manchester venue, Gorilla.  

Photo Credit: @jacarmstrongshoots // Jac Armstrong

Inside, punters gathered and were treated to two great openers. Mel Raeburn, of Manchester origin and Fright Years, from Edinburgh, kicked off proceedings, effortlessly warming up the crowd with polished sets. The party had started and the main event was now only minutes away. 

‘this part of town’ got things underway. A song about being ‘on a long road from home’ was the perfect way to return to playing live in the city where she first made her name. ‘situations’, an upbeat, and melodic indie-pop track followed, the perfect accompaniment to the first signs of summer outside. 

With the crowd right where she wanted them, Bria shifted gear, changed pace and effortlessly slid into ‘big thief’ followed by, ‘plugged in’. An open and honest pair of song about taking back control of your own life, the connection between Better Joy and her fans was on show for all to see.

Photo Credit: @jacarmstrongshoots // Jac Armstrong

Better Joy’s inquisitive music taste was on display. If Michael Jackson’s ‘Black or White’ had a child with Paul Weller’s ‘Broken Stones’, it would sound something like ‘quiet thing’. ‘steamroller’, despite being a newer of Better Joy’s releases, was noticeably well received and an undeniable highlight. 

‘carnival’ and ‘dead plants’ helped close the show, a raucous combination of put simply, really good rock songs. When played live, this pair make the room move. Better Joy is building, putting the work in and reaping the rewards. With well produced songs centred around poetic lyrics, Bria has created a catalogue of music that is meant to be played live. A future Manchester show at a bigger venue was teased, you know what to do.