A legendary music duo from the 1990s has made a triumphant return to the stage after a quarter-century hiatus. Everything But the Girl, consisting of singer Tracey Thorn and her husband Ben Watt, performed two exclusive concerts in London over the weekend. Fans were treated to a blend of original tracks and covers, showcasing their versatile musical style that spans indie folk, electronica, and trip-hop. Although their biggest hit, "Missing," was notably absent from the setlist, the duo hinted at more performances if these shows go well.
The Return of a Music Icon
In the heart of London during an exhilarating spring weekend, Everything But the Girl took the stage once again, igniting nostalgia among fans who had waited decades for this moment. On Sunday and Monday, April 6th and 7th, 2025, the band played at the intimate MOTH Club. The atmosphere was described as relaxed yet electrifying, with a focus on acoustic and electronic sounds rather than high-energy club anthems.
Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt, who originally formed the band in 1982, presented a mix of cherished classics like “Mirrorball” and new interpretations of songs by other artists such as Cole Porter’s “Night and Day.” They also shared personal solo projects, including Thorn’s reflective “Small Town Girl” and Watt’s poetic “North Marine Drive.” Notably missing from the lineup was their chart-topping single “Missing,” which brought them international fame in the mid-1990s. According to sources, this omission aligns with the band’s intention to create a mellow, folk-infused vibe rather than revisiting past commercial successes.
Both evenings ended with enthusiastic encores, leaving audiences hopeful for future performances. Thorn confirmed plans for additional gigs soon, stating, “We will be back at the MOTH (club) soon.” This marks the beginning of what could become a full-scale reunion tour following the release of their latest album, "Fuse," in 2023.
From their early days collaborating with Paul Weller in the 1980s to becoming global sensations in the 1990s, Everything But the Girl has always been about creating meaningful connections through music. Their decision to step away in 2000 allowed each member to pursue individual endeavors while raising a family together. Now, they are reuniting not only to celebrate their legacy but also to explore fresh creative directions.
As Thorn put it online after the shows, photography wasn’t permitted inside the venue, but glimpses into their carefully crafted setlists reveal just how thoughtfully they approached this comeback. These performances serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of their artistry.
Looking ahead, fans eagerly anticipate whether “Missing” might make an appearance in upcoming concerts—or if the duo will continue crafting entirely new experiences instead.
For many, witnessing Everything But the Girl perform live again is a reminder of the power of timeless music. It underscores how certain melodies can transcend generations, evoking memories and emotions long buried. This reunion isn't merely about recapturing glory; it's about rediscovering joy, authenticity, and connection through shared musical expression. As Thorn and Watt embark on this next chapter, one thing is clear: their story is far from over.