milk. | The Victoria, London | 26/11/24

There’s enough material here for another EP, or perhaps a full record. We’re ready, are you?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

After a successful 2023 following the release of the 3 EP and their biggest tour yet, alt-pop band milk. are already gearing up for new music. Over the last few years, they’ve built quite a cult following, tapping into the trendy electronic blend of indie spearheaded in the 2010s.

Going into 2025, the Dublin quartet are more than established in the indie scene, weaving emotional narratives behind intricate riffs and nuanced electronic production. Rather than sitting on new material, the band decided to get on the road and test it in front of a crowd. What better place to do so than in the capital, in an intimate grassroots venue?

After a fantastic support slot by Frankie Beetlestone, who managed to pull off his set without his usual band, milk. appeared through the curtains. Without much delay, the band raced into their new material, captivating the sold-out room within moments. There was little time for looking back, the group themselves even jokily getting Drama Queen out of the way early. That being said, a few fan favourites like Lost My Number and I Might Bore You crept into the set, which added some familiarity for pacing.

During tracks, the crowd shouted lyrics or phrases. One crying out, “It’s the Internet’s world, and we’re living in it” and another saying, “On my way to London, who the f**k am I?”. Mark and Co found it amusing, and in a way demonstrates a growing connection with their audience.

Despite the bulk of these tracks not being played to live audiences (in the UK) before, milk. were impressively tight from beginning to end. The strongest of the new collection was Caught In The Middle, which is an emotionally charged acoustic single, which can’t be released soon enough. You can watch a teaser of the track via our TikTok or Instagram.

Elsewhere At A Time In My Life and You’ve Changed Your Mind take influence of where the band have been, and expand on their smooth sound. Our favourite Don’t Miss It closed the night, letting the band loose, and seeing McKenna and King lock heads in a fantastic finale.

Judging by the reception at the first listen to every new track, people are going to love whatever project is on the horizon. There’s enough material here for another EP, or perhaps a full record. We’re ready, are you?

Were you at the show? Check out our Insta and TikTok for videos, or share your own with us.