On November 9, 2024, Nottingham’s Rescue Rooms came alive with an electrifying night of music, featuring the fierce and uncompromising Millie Manders and The Shutup, supported by the brilliantly quirky Ramona’s Tea Party. The evening was a masterclass in blending powerful messages with unforgettable energy.

Ramona’s Tea Party
Opening the night with a whirlwind of vibrant thrash-punk energy, Norway’s Ramona’s Tea Party immediately set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Frontwoman Ramona, resplendent in a pink dress and sporting electric blue hair, was a force of nature—equal parts charm and chaos. Her genuine gratitude for the warm Nottingham crowd added a personal touch that resonated deeply. Guitarist Christopher Lyngedal, channeling a punk-meets-Betelgeuse aesthetic, delivered an electrifying performance, complete with gravity-defying high kicks and energetic backing vocals. The band’s rhythm section drove the set with unrelenting intensity, ensuring no one in the audience stood still.

Adding to the fun, the band taught the crowd the Norwegian word “ekstranummer,” meaning “encore,” in a moment of playful crowd engagement. Their infectious enthusiasm and unique presence ensured they left a lasting impression, proving themselves a perfect complement to the headline act.

Millie Manders and The Shutup
When Millie Manders and The Shutup hit the stage, they commanded it with raw power and unflinching charisma. Known for their genre-defying blend of punk, pop, and rock, the band delivered a set that was as thought-provoking as it was exhilarating. Each song came loaded with socially conscious lyrics tackling issues like global injustice, poverty, and gender violence, all wrapped in irresistibly catchy melodies.

Millie’s dynamic vocal range was nothing short of awe-inspiring, seamlessly shifting from soulful melodies to explosive punk grit. The band showcased tracks from their critically acclaimed albums, including “Angry Side,” “Shut Your Mouth,” and “Broken Record,” each one a carefully crafted anthem that resonated with the crowd. A standout moment came during the performance of “Can I Get Off,” where Millie proudly displayed a Palestinian flag, underscoring the band’s commitment to activism.

The setlist masterfully balanced hard-hitting social commentary with moments of sheer musical joy. Tracks like “Fun Sponge,” “Me Too,” and “Threadbare” had the audience bouncing, while more reflective numbers like “Pressure” and “Your Story” invited moments of introspection. By the end of the set, the crowd was left energized and inspired, a testament to the band’s unique ability to make serious messages both accessible and electrifying.

A Night to Remember
This was more than just a gig; it was a rallying cry, a celebration, and an unforgettable showcase of raw talent. Ramona’s Tea Party charmed and thrilled with their chaotic energy, while Millie Manders and The Shutup cemented their status as one of the most vital voices in modern music. Combining razor-sharp lyrics, relentless energy, and unwavering authenticity, this night at the Rescue Rooms will live long in the memory of all who were lucky enough to be there.