"Prelude to Ecstasy" by The Last Dinner Party, I’m Addicted!

Although their song reminds us that ultimately, “nothing matters,” The Last Dinner Party has quickly become my latest musical addiction. Originating in England and forming only a few years ago, the band The Last Dinner Party has already distinguished a distinct and exciting image for themselves. They are an incredibly refreshing group, meshing their Renaissance-esque gowns and ribbons with their modern critical writing that pinpoints the many universal avenues of joy and pain. 

Photo is official album cover for Prelude to Ecstasy  by The Last Dinner Party

They received pretty viral attention for the first single they ever released, “Nothing Matters,” which is how I found them. The verses of this song are laced with ABBA and Florence the Machine inspirations, while their addicting sing-along chorus marked the track as an instant classic in my books. In February of 2024, the group released their first album, Prelude to Ecstasy, which is versatile and alluring from top to bottom. The first track, sharing the album's title, is a minute-and-a-half instrumental that plays as a musical-like overture introduction to the album. 

Although I love all the songs on the album, a personal favorite of mine is “The Feminine Urge.” This song comments on the intricate experience of being a woman and the common societal wounds women hold and share with others. The lyrics feel both wondrous and wistful, expressing the weight and wonder of womanhood when they sing, “Oh ballerina, bend under the weight of it all, ain't it fun to hold the world in your hands?” The verses are beautifully tragic, yet there is a sense of anger and empowerment throughout the song, ultimately recognizing that feminine urge many of us know so well. 

Another favorite track of mine is “My Lady of Mercy.” It’s embedded with references to religion and the band's time at catholic school to explore themes of sexuality and self-expression. It starts upbeat, with captivating verses, until it eventually builds to a choir-like chant as they sing, “Oh, rest your feet on me, My lady of mercy, Strike me, pierce me straight through the heart.” 

Photo from Forbes.com by Barry Brecheisen

Although they are a relatively new band with a small discography, they have already toured in Europe and America, and I was fortunate enough to see them at Lollapalooza. I was still a new fan then, only familiar with “Nothing Matters” and a few other songs, but seeing them live got me hooked. It was clear that they wrote several songs on the album with anticipation to sing them live; the joy and excitement from each member as they performed was truly contagious. The band, comprised of all women and non-male members, was inspiring to watch as they sang together about the universal experiences of femininity in society. 

Their presence as a band is truly addicting due to their striking authenticity and enthusiasm for their art. They seem to be having the time of their lives, singing and playing passionately as they waltz across stages and tour around the world. I can’t wait to see what they do next—everything they’ve done so far has left me in ecstasy! I suggest you check out Prelude to Ecstasy yourself and see what you think!