A Night with the House of Love: Walking Through Their Brighton Music Hall

Written by Emma Delarosa

With powerful guitar strums, assertive basslines, and an experimental drummer with arms of steel, The House of Love reminded their audience what they’re capable of. The last time The House of Love toured North America was in the early 1990s, so anticipation was in the air as fans awaited for doors to open outside of Brighton Music Hall. The British alternative rock band made their way back across the pond to Boston, for the third show of their North American tour.

The House of Love attracted an older crowd, but they all possessed the eagerness of a teenage fangirl. From a local bostonian who planned his week around this concert, to a pair of old college buddies meeting up, one flying all the way from Florida.

After those waiting were allowed in, it took a long time for more concert-goers to trickle in. Fans were fearful that the show would have a small crowd, as after all, it was a rainy Monday. Alex Nicol, the opening act shifted the venue quickly. The energy pulsed through the venue, awaiting The House of Love. In between sets, the crowd was more than ready for The House of Love to come on and put on the show they’d been waiting to see for three decades.

The second the lights dimmed, the audience erupted. When The House of Love hit the stage, they slammed the audience with a bang of confidence. It was clear that the band members have been patiently waiting for their time to hit the states again. Each song had just as much energy as the last, intoxicating the crowd.

The band had a stage presence that could have made any song a grand finale and they demonstrated a mastery of versatility. Some songs were dark and heavy, while others were more bluesy and groovy. The House of Love was flexible to their set. In the unexpected event of lead singer Guy Chadwick’s breaking a guitar string, the rest of the band went backstage while it was being fixed. In the meantime, Chadwick remained on stage, singing a solo song on another guitar to keep the audience occupied. It was a candid moment that showcased Chadwick’s admirable ability to think on his feet. The song was titled “Fade Away” and was a tender moment between Chadwick and the crowd.

The moment the full band returned to the stage, it was back to business. It was as if there was no hiccup in the set. In performing new songs, old songs, and really old songs, The House of Love conquered Brighton Music Hall, demanding the attention of each person in the venue. What connected the band with the audience was their playful spirit, genuine love of what they do, and sincere appreciation for their supporters.

At the end of the show, they left the audience wanting more, so naturally came out for an electrifying encore. For the final song, the band members circled around the trouble, allowing audience members to see their chemistry ignite live. It was a moment of connection and truly feeling the music. The House of Love’s passion made this one of the best and most engaging that is rare to see.

After the show ended, some of the band members went to get some fresh air and enjoyed some cigarettes outside. They spoke as naturally with fans as if they were just another person in the crowd. I had the pleasure of speaking to bassist Harry Osborne, guitarist Keith Osborne (the bassist’s father), and drummer Hugo Degenhardt. They were grateful for their fans and expressed genuine interest in connecting with them. Touring with The House of Love was described as, “Just lots of fun!” by Harry Osbourne.