Live Review: The K's - Tramshed, Cardiff 12/04/2024

With their debut album reaching an impressive number 3 in the official charts, only nudged out of place by the queen of pop herself, Beyoncé, and indie-stalwarts The Libertines, it was safe to say spirits were in high velocity as The K's rolled in to Cardiff set to deliver a momentous performance. Last in town supporting The Reytons, the band were back on Welsh soil and in prime position at their well deserved headline show. 

With the energy inside already palpable as eager fans packed into Tramshed for an evening of electrifying guitar music, once the lights dimmed and the first chords of Icarus reverberated through the air, it was evident this was going to be a full on assault of rowdy jubilation.

With the band in place, the crowd erupted into cheers, setting the tone for an unforgettable performance - from the outset, the Earlestown locals commanding their presence with infectious energy and raw talent. 

With Jamie Boyle's gritty vocals cutting through the air, captivating everyone in the room, the tight-knit instrumentation provided a solid foundation for each song. And if one thing was to behold it was the atmosphere inside as pint cups were quick to be thrown, with fans atop of friend's shoulders and each and every word being sung back at the top of their lungs. 

From the high octane Chancer with its guitar swinging melodies and pulsating energy, to the driving force unleashed on Heart On My Sleeve that saw the the band shift pace sending shock waves through the crowd in to the circle pits, it was evident that their sound truly comes to life in the live environment. 

Giving fans a moment to catch their breath, the band further showcased their dynamic talents as the soft and emotively charged Hoping Maybe delivered soaring guitar layers and placed Boyle's vocal prowess centre stage as he belted out the chorus. A perfect set up for the ever popular Black And Blue which saw the band throw in some extended refrains resulting in Dexter Baker joking about another "black and black and blue" chorus as the song ended. 

It's these comedic values that continue to set them apart and show their human side. Evidently so when things got a little to heated and the show was momentarily paused to aid a fan over the barrier as Boyle kept on guard overseeing for anyone in trouble.

Once things had calmed down and everyone was accounted for, the band rounded up with Aurora, a track that allowed them to let loose on their buoyant melodies and effervescent rhythms all eagerly lapped up by the swathes of swaying hands and bobbing heads as they cheered for one more song following the band's departure. 

With plenty more still in the tank, of course they were coming back. "Here we, here we, here we fucking go" attempted Boyle as he joked about his accent letting him down joining in the infamous Scottish chant. 

With Valley One, the guitar snarling Hometown and Sarajevo rounding up the proceedings, it was clear that The K's had delivered a performance for the ages. With their raw talent, infectious energy, and undeniable charisma, they had proven once again why they are one of the most exciting bands on the indie-rock scene today. Be sure not to pass up the opportunity to catch them at these semi-intimate venues whilst you can. 

*****