The Lottery Winners are nearing the end of a 21 date UK tour in support of their new album Anxiety Replacement Therapy, which was released on the day of their Southampton show. Loveable frontman, Thom Rylance, might have mentioned once or twice a word of encouragement to purchase the album. And why not; supporting this superbly entertaining hard working band from the little northern town of Leigh, UK, just feels the right thing to do, and they have a genuine chance of high placement in the UK album charts. The album features Boy George, Frank Turner, and Shaun Ryder amongst the ten anthems, with three spoken word interludes. It’s a lovely listen. And they are a lovely band to see live.
Thom introduced the song “Letter to Myself” from the new album by saying he struggles to perform the song without crying. This is not theatrics but a genuine, heartfelt, emotional outpouring. He had a difficult childhood, ADHD and being expelled from school twice, and the song, giving comfort and hope to his twelve-year old self, is full of emotion. The crowd are fully on his side, empathising and caring, and singing back the lyrics. It’s a powerful moment and is what live music is all about.
Their live show is pure entertainment, and of the numerous highlights they had their phone-lights-in-the-air moment for “Overthink Everything”, a beautiful song from their 2021 album Something to Leave the House For. The last song before the break is “Start Again” and it’s an anthem that literally goes off with the crowd, hands in the air, singing along, good times. During the short break before the encore, the crowd spontaneously starts singing, chanting, the band’s song “21” form their self titled debut album. They are not disappointed and the band close their set with the song, everyone in the room singing as one. Well done The Lottery Winners, a superb live show in support of a great new album. Good luck for the UK chart placement this week.
Supporting were Pet Needs, full of energetic indie punk. Frontman Johnny Marriott inciting the crowd to match his energy, and they obligingly did so.
Opening the show was local legend Jerry Williams, with beautiful storytelling songs and captivating vocal.
Photos and words by Tony Palmer (Website, Instagram, TikTok).
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