Live Report: 49th & Main perform genre alchemy in Rankin's Wood

49th & Main take crowd work to new levels, as they deliver a vibrant set to jubilant fans in Rankin’s Wood.

Dressed in tennis attire, the two deliver a masterclass in genre blending, combining indie pop with elements of dance and funk, but never committing to one sound.

Before their set has even begun, they’ve pulled a huge crowd, one that only continues to grow throughout the show as passers-by are pulled in by their contagious energy.

49th & Main. Credit: Liam Murphy

Joined onstage by a saxophonist, they create a unique show- there’s not many places that you can hear harmonies between brass and an electric guitar.

The crowd’s involvement is clearly a priority for the duo, and it’s clear why- their fans are eager to get involved, whether rudimentary percussion or providing guerilla harmonies.

Lead singer Paddy King asks the crowd to clap along, but the majority of the time they do it of their own volition- their enthusiasm only improves an already entertaining show.

49th & Main. Credit: Liam Murphy

The crowd doesn’t grow this enthusiasm from nothing- it’s clear that a good chunk of it has spilled over from the stage. Launching into their latest release, ‘Can’t Walk Away’ the duo’s combination of synth, sax, and Stratocaster fills the tent.

Exclaiming that EP was the duo’s first ever festival, King says “it’s a fucking privilege to be here”, and based on the crowd’s reaction they’re not the only ones that feel this way.