Going into this gig I knew it was going to be a mental one. The small space (too small I thought for Calva Louise) was sold out and too be honest I’ve never seen the venue that packed even on other sold-out shows. It felt busier with everyone squishing to the front right from doors.

Opening the night was first of the two acts KNIFE BRIDE, I have been lucky to see these guys live before and have been following their journey for quite a bit now. The four-piece who recently dropped their new EP ‘sorry about the plague’ treated us to new songs from that release and some favourite older ones too.

Their gothic vibe that’s matched with something sweet and cinematic translates into a stunning show. This is a band that need no gimmicks, their massive sound speaking for itself, with the stunning vocal and large guitar sounds that see tracks sweep from light fairytale moments into a heaviness that begs you to open a pit. It was clear in the room that quite a few people were new to KNIFE BRIDE but it took no time at all for the group to win them over. Whether dancing around the stage or throwing each other the occasional smile KNIFE BRIDE clearly love being on stage together and their chemistry is unmistakable, furthering them as a band you must see live.

 As we waited for Calva Louise to take their place on the stage the tv screens that were on the walls in front of us began to flicker and the atmosphere began to build. Then the three-piece took their places and suddenly we were completely thrust into the world of Calva Louise.

 This wasn’t just a show, it was an experience and it’s clear that no detail was missed in their set, the way they play or their style. The presence these guys have belongs on some of the biggest stages and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see them taking on larger venues soon.

Calva Louise are a band I’ve never had the chance to see before and after about two songs I could confirm that they are just as good as you would expect them to be. Whether racing through heavier edged tracks, slowing down into more vocal focused moments or anything in between the trio nail every note. As the crowd moved further forward throughout the night from my space at the back it was almost as if the band and the crowd were becoming one, every person in the room transported into the sci-fi/futuristic world that surrounded us. Even as the last song reached it’s last note each and every person was still full of energy and willing to give it all, I believe there was even a little mosh pit that broke out at the end (but it had to be tiny because there was no room in there for anyone to move).

 

That night at Garage Attic felt like one of those special gigs you’ll never forget, and I feel so lucky that I got to not only see this gig but see Calva Louise while they are still playing intimate venues like this.