They formed only three years ago, but in that short space of time The Last Dinner Party have become one of the most exciting new rock acts of the modern age. Their first full‑length, released back in February and titled Prelude To Ecstasy, ended up topping the UK album charts – becoming the first British rock debut to do so since Royal Blood burst onto the scene a decade ago. “It was very unexpected,” admits lead guitarist Emily Roberts. “I never thought that would be a reality… it’s crazy!”
It only takes one listen to the album, however, to appreciate why it was such an important release for this year. Combining elements of Kate Bush, David Bowie and Queen into a sound that feels completely new and unique, they’re the kind of band that seem to exist, as well as thrive, in a genre and class of their own – treading new ground with every song they’ve recorded to date.
They’ve supported The Rolling Stones and been signed up by American management giants Q Prime, who also represent Metallica, Muse and Greta Van Fleet. Following appearances at Glastonbury and the Reading/Leeds festivals, the quintet will be ending this year with a UK tour which culminates with three sold-out nights at London’s Eventim Apollo, performing to 16,000 people in the capital alone.
Speaking to TG, Emily discusses her guitar journey thus far, from a four-year course specialising in jazz to performing as Brian May in an all-female Queen tribute band, and gives us a closer look at the breathtaking tones
