Taking to the stage for their first show on UK soil in six years, Robin Pecknold says with a wry smile: “I trust that nothing has changed.” While a fair amount of time has passed since we last heard from Fleet Foxes, and things around them certainly have changed, it all feels more familiar than ever – though closing out this year’s Latitude comes as no easy feat. It’s late on Sunday so quite a few revellers have left the site early, meaning the crowd at the Obelisk is smaller than it should be. Still, those who have braved both the weather and prospect of a rough start on Monday are here to welcome the band back with open arms.
Before a single note is played, shouts of “We love you!” cement Latitude’s booking as a solid choice. Opener ‘I Am All That I Need / Arroyo Seco / Thumbprint Scar’ eases both band and crowd into a long-awaited reunion. Fleet Foxes’ music relies on its perfectly crafted and honed layers to come together and form a euphoric sound that’s unbeaten; it’s one that perfectly traverses the arena tonight. Every word comes with a well-packaged sincerity.
With the setting sun in front, Fleet Foxes blend with the evening perfectly. A headliner in all respects, they’re masters of their craft – be it rapid and panicked guitars, flute or delicately played brass. ‘He Doesn’t Know Why?’ comes out as a clear fan favourite, with ripples of applause. Fleet Foxes constantly feel at home; every moment is a fresh turn into familiar territory. ‘Mykonos’ kicks in with its choral introduction as the drums pound in causing a remarkable rise in linked arm dancing from the ever enthusiastic crowd.
This year’s third album ‘Crack-Up’ was a welcome return from the Seattle group. Fleet Foxes are over eleven years into a career that’s seen them go from hidden gems to mainstream long stays, and tonight at Latitude, they prove why: they’re in a world of their own.
Photos: Poppy Marriott / Dork
