On 26th March 2026, InMe returned to the stage at The Waterfront with the kind of quiet confidence that only comes from decades of experience. Never a band to chase trends, InMe instead lean into authenticity, and on this particular night, that approach paid off in full.
Formed in Brentwood, Essex, the band emerged as part of the early-2000s UK alternative rock wave before carving out a more progressive, intricate sound in later years. Their debut album “Overgrown Eden” remains a touchstone of the era, but InMe have never been content to stand still. Across a career spanning nearly three decades, they’ve evolved album by album, building a fiercely loyal fanbase rather than chasing mainstream recognition.
The current line-up, Dave McPherson (vocals/guitar), Gazz Marlow (guitar), Tom Dalton (drums), John O’Keeffe (guitar), and Mike Garrett (bass), took to the stage with a relaxed but assured energy.
Dave McPherson, still the heart and voice of the band, delivered a performance that balanced technical precision with emotional heart, his vocals shifting seamlessly between fragile soul to souring fire.
From the opening moments, the setlist felt like a carefully curated journey through the band’s history. Early favourites like “7 Weeks”, “So You Know” and “You’ll Get There” from the “White Butterfly” album, along with the title track, were met with immediate recognition, slotting naturally alongside their other classics. Even slipping in their most recent release, “Prove Myself”, which went down a storm. There’s something uniquely satisfying about watching a band that has grown with its audience, each track seemed to carry its own shared history between stage and crowd.
The Waterfront itself proved an ideal setting. Known for its intimate layout, the venue amplified the connection between band and audience. This wasn’t just another arena spectacle, it was a communal experience. Fans pressed close to the stage, singing back lyrics with a sense of camaraderie and love that only long term supporters can bring. InMe have always thrived in these environments, where their music feels less like a performance and more like a conversation.
What stood out most on the night was the atmosphere. There was an unmistakable sense of unity in the room. Part nostalgia, part celebration. Many in attendance had clearly followed the band for years, and that loyalty translated into a warm, almost familial energy.
Between songs, Dave McPherson’s interactions with the crowd felt genuine and unforced, reinforcing the idea that InMe’s success has always been rooted in connection rather than just another performance.
Musically, the band were tight and punctual. The dual guitar work of Gazz Marlow and John O’Keeffe added depth and texture, particularly on the more progressive material, while Tom Dalton and Mike Garrett provided a rhythm section that was both powerful and precise. The balance between heavier riffs and melodic moments was handled expertly, showcasing the band’s evolution without losing sight of their roots.
One of the most impressive aspects of the performance was how seamlessly the band moved between eras. Tracks from their early 2000s sat comfortably alongside later, more complex songs, highlighting just how far they’ve come without alienating longtime fans. It’s a delicate balance, but one InMe seem to have mastered.
As the set drew to a close, the sense of appreciation in the room was mutual. The band looked genuinely grateful, and the audience responded in kind, reluctant to let the night end. It’s this reciprocal energy that has sustained InMe for so long. They may never have been the biggest name in British rock, but nights like this make it clear that their impact runs deep.
In a music landscape often dominated by big trends and gimmicks, InMe remain a testament to longevity, evolution, and the power of a dedicated fanbase. Their Waterfront show on 26th March wasn’t just another show, it was a reminder of why they’ve been a powerful piece of this industry for so long, and will continue to be that too.
The “Butterfly Demons” tour is still in progress. To grab tickets, find out more information and to learn more about InMe, head to their website or social media
Words and pictures by Haylea Allison
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