IDER opened for Melanie Martinez in Manchester, and delivered a polished set of electronic indie pop. The London duo potentially lend themselves well to an intimate space, but tonight it proved more than capable of filling a sizeable room.

The chemistry between Megan Markwick and Lily Somerville is immediately apparent. Their harmonies were a real highlight, voices weaving and blending with each other with an ease that comes from a decade of playing together. They regularly swapped lead vocals, keeping things fluid and ensuring neither became simply the supporting act to the other.

That sense of interplay carried over to the instruments, with the duo switching between keyboards, guitar and electronic elements throughout the set. There was a playful quality to it all; looks, smiles and interactions between them made the performance feel spontaneous, while their engagement with the audience drew everyone further into their world.

IDER’s music sits comfortably between the organic and electronic. Pulsing beats and smooth synth textures sit alongside guitars, layered vocals and introspective songwriting, creating something that feels both carefully constructed and personal. Live, those elements keep hold of their detail while still feeling immediatel.

The duo clearly enjoy playing together, and that enjoyment is infectious. The result was a confident, warm set that made a strong case for IDER beyond the role of opening act.

With tight musicianship, strong harmonies and a natural rapport, IDER gave the Manchester crowd plenty to enjoy in their half hourr set. It was an accomplished performance that showed there’s plenty of potential in this duo, and left a sense that their live presence will keep growing.

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