The Invisible @ The Borderline, London

With a palpable thrum of conversation on the go this feels more like a mass meeting of Friends Reunited than a gig. But as Artrocker bustles its way through the 300-capacity hive of excitement, it’s a warm feeling that manages to spread.

Although primary reason to celebrate tonight is the re-launching of central London’s The Borderline as a venue for the up-and-coming, the lick of bright white paint isn’t likely to be the main lure to the party. No, despite extensive refurbishment this lot couldn’t care if this were a crumbling relic; for tonight The Invisible return to play one of their more intimate dates.

Having last year toured extensively with the likes of Micachu and The Shapes, their following has expanded but still feels personal. As their first gig of the year, Dave Okumu is excited and wishes the crowd “happy New Year” a little clumsily – as for all the size of this yellow-clad giant, there is not even a hint of imposition.

Showcasing two new tracks to start off the set, Dave adopts guitar for the euphoric ‘Squares and Circles’, having played bass shortly before for the melancholic groove of ‘Memories’. These provide a tantalising glimpse of what’s set for the follow-up to their Mercury nominated eponymous debut.

As you might expect, the set also featured ‘London Girl’, ‘Monster Waltz’ and ‘Jacob & the Angel’. Perhaps unsurprising considering the love-in vibes, Edd Gibson of Friendly Fires is seen nodding away intently as well as members of Plugs. No doubt for the aforementioned groups, as well as the rest of the industry, The Invisible are fast becoming a force to be reckoned with, and so far the indications are good for that sophomore release.