Concert Review: Millie Manders & The Shutup and Death Trails at Bannermans, Edinburgh (15th April 2026)

Here we find ourselves once again at Bannermans, this time for a dose of punk pop courtesy of Millie Manders, with an opening act by Death Trails from the Northern part of England. Death Trails is a band that blends Punk, Grunge, Ska, and Hardcore elements. Their modern punk sound was evident in tracks like “Live Und Let Live” with its infectious rhythm driven by impressive drumming.

One particular highlight was “You Lose, Good Day” which featured a guitar-heavy, grungy vibe that built up slowly before transitioning into some powerful bass lines and dynamic drumming. The song “Animal” stood out with its fast-paced energy and reminiscent of L7, complemented by catchy chorus lines. A surprising yet interesting inclusion was their cover of “Pump Up The Jam” which added a unique twist to their set.

The band closed their set with the bouncy “Ska Dad,” leaving the audience thoroughly entertained and engaged. Noteworthy performances by Muss on drums, Luke on bass, and Catlow on guitar showcased their energy and musical prowess, making them a must-see for fans of modern punk rock with a twist.

Transitioning to the main act, Millie Manders & The Shutup took the stage with “Fun Sponge,” an upbeat anthem that set the tone for their performance. Millie’s captivating vocals shone through as the band delved into tracks from their 2017 EP “Obsession Transgression,” including “Bacchus” and the title track. The addition of the saxophone on “Obsession Transgression” added a fresh and engaging element to their sound.

One of the standout moments was the electrifying rendition of “Silent Screams” from their 2020 album “Telling Truths, Breaking Ties,” enhanced by the presence of brass sections in the background. The absence of live brass on stage was felt but did not diminish the impact of the performance. “Bitter” showcased fantastic bass lines and guitar riffs, while “Age Disgracefully,” a new song inspired by societal pressures, brought a unique perspective to the set.

“Broken Record” was another crowd-pleaser, combining vibrant vocals and drums with killer brass sections from the album. The band wrapped up their set with the grit of “Your Story” and the infectious energy of “Rebound,” followed by the high-octane “Not Ok” as the closing number. The band’s refusal to do encores didn’t diminish the intensity of their performance, leaving the audience craving more.

Overall, Millie Manders & The Shutup delivered a stellar set, complete with engaging melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and an infectious energy that had the crowd singing along and immersed in the music. The night was filled with reflective moments and a celebration of mental well-being, urging listeners to view the world through a different lens. Catch this talented band live when they visit your area, and prepare for a night of fun and introspection. Until the next show.