First Aid Kit returned to London’s Royal Albert Hall on September 29 for the first time in 12 years, and they made it count. The Swedish duo performed their 2014 album“Stay Gold”in full, backed by the 65-piece Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra. It was one of only two UK shows on their schedule, making the night a rare treat for fans who have followed them since that album’s release.
The emotional high point came at the end. Klara and Johanna Söderberg closed the show with a cover of Dolly Parton’s“I Will Always Love You,”dedicated to the country icon who died last month at age 80. Klara told the crowd they wanted to dedicate it to“one of our biggest heroes.”The set also included a cover of Simon&Garfunkel’s“America,”a song the duo famously performed for Paul Simon back in 2012.
Between the orchestra, the nostalgia of the“Stay Gold”era, and the Dolly tribute, it was a night built for longtime fans and new ones alike. The duo even told the audience they decided to just play whatever they wanted, and that freedom showed in every moment. What song would you want to hear with a full orchestra behind it? Let us know in the comments.
About the Author
Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.