On their self-titled debut, musical-magpies Allo Darlin’ emerged thoroughly wrapped up in the cuddly cardigan that is indie-pop, quoting openly (a rhyme borrowed from The Smittens here) and contentedly recycling well-worn lyrical touchstones (references to Sweden there). If their aesthetic parameters weren’t clear enough, they’re currently touring with Sarah veterans The Orchids, who open tonight with a strong set incorporating material from their 1988 salad-days up to last year’s The Lost Star. From the latter, the likes of She’s My Girl prove their song-writing abilities have yet to dull.
The headliners also keep things fresh, unveiling new tracks ahead of the recording of their second album in April. The new material indicates no great departures lie in store, though tonight’s support act have already demonstrated the merits of consistency over reinvention. The Orchid’s bassist Ronnie Borland guests on gorgeous duet Dreaming, while elsewhere My Heart is a Drummer and a solo ukulele Tallulah produce further highlights. But as the references accumulate – a Weezer chorus here, a Grease refrain there – it’s difficult not to crave a more singular, less citation-heavy, sound; they’ve much more to offer than an El Scorcho singalong.
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