Despite a year's worth of rain pouring down on the country in the space of a day, Liverpool's Circa Waves were on hand to bring the temperatures up to a balmy climate, ensuring Bristol's Beacon remained comfortably T-Shirt Weather. 

Following two triumphant sets by Corella and Peace, the lights dimmed announcing the band's arrival as they took to the stage in support of their recent album, 'Death & Love Pt.1' as they kicked off with the propulsive "Do You Wanna Talk".

The setlist was a masterclass in balance—fresh material like "We Made It" and "Le Bateau" sat seamlessly alongside fan favourites. But it was the classics that sent the crowd into a frenzy; "Movies" had hands in the air, while frontman Kieran Shuddall asked if anyone was called "Jaqueline" which ignited a sea of movement. "It's okay you can just pretend" he exclaimed.

With the band having escaped me live until now, it was my first experience face to face with their music, and it was good fortune I had my ear plugs with the rock'n'roll sound they brought. Through thumping percussion and pulsating basslines that rattled the chest, the band's tight performing was a true testament to their empowering musicianship. Every song a replica of the studio recording. 

"This one's a song you can really dance to" said Shudall. But it's a statement that could easily apply to any one of their songs as the unmistaken guitar riffs of "Lemonade" unravelled to a mass sing along with hands waving side to side.

There was a rawness to their performance, a reminder that despite their polished recordings, Circa Waves thrive in the chaos of live music and when "T-Shirt Weather" finally arrived, the room erupted in unison, every lyric shouted back with uncontainable joy as fans mounted shoulders and bounced around.

As the final notes rang out, Circa Waves proved they aren’t just surfing the wave of nostalgia—they’re still delivering an electrifying live show that continues to grow as they ride on the successes of album number 6. 

*****