October 24, 2007 23:24

Editors pull in string quartet for BBC Electric Proms

Birmingham four-piece take a leaf out of Kasabian's book

Photo Gallery: Editors

Editors roped in a string quartet for a special performance at the 2007 BBC Electric Proms tonight (October 24).

The Birmingham four-piece kicked off a series of gigs at KOKO in London with a classical string accompaniment similar to Kasabian's orchestral performance last year.

Arriving onstage, singer Tom Smith, who was dressed in a black shirt and scarf, blew the audience a kiss as the band launched into 'Bones'.

Acknowledging the quartet's fresh makeover, the singer said: "We are very proud and honoured to be part of the Electric Proms. It is traditional to do something different so tonight there are eight of us onstage together."

The gloom-rockers mixed their set with singles from their debut 'The Back Room' and played their second album 'An End Has A Start' virtually in its entirety, bar 'Push Your Head Towards The Air'.

The loudest cheers were reserved for hit single 'Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors' and signature closer 'Fingers In The Factories'.

Wrapping up the show, Smith told the string quartet: "Thank you. These guys have been unbelievable."

Editors played:

'Bones'
'Bullets'
'Blood'
'Escape The Nest'
'Fall'
'When Anger Shows'
'All Sparks'
'An End Has A Start'
'Well Worn Hand'
'Spiders'
'Lights'
'The Weight Of The World'
'The Racing Rats'
'Munich'
'You Are Fading'
'Smokers Outside The Hospital Doors'
'Fingers In The Factories'

Earlier, New York puzzle-pop outfit Battles opened the night with a series of tracks from their debut album 'Mirrored', including single 'Atlas'.

The 2007 BBC Electric Proms will continue with further performances at KOKO from The Chemical Brothers and Tim Burgess.

To see pictures from the night check out of special gallery now.