What better way for Prima Queen to kick off their tour celebrating the release of their debut album, The Prize, than aboard Bristol’s iconic floating venue, Thekla? For Bristol native Louise Macphail, this was more than just another gig—it was a homecoming, filled with nostalgia and the echoes of past nights spent in the crowd, including a memorable Phoebe Bridgers show she once dragged an ex to.
But before Prima Queen took the stage, the night began with Lilo, a London-based folk duo whose harmonies are as heartbreakingly beautiful as they are intricately woven. Their set was a masterclass in emotional storytelling, with tracks like Step offering a stripped-back, gliding piece of folk beauty that left the audience in silent admiration. Between songs, their banter was anything but melancholic—kayaking became the unexpected theme of the night’s chatter. Their debut album, Blood Ties, released earlier this year, is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates raw, intimate songwriting.
Then, as the opening notes of Click Bait filled the boat, Prima Queen arrived to a raucous Bristol welcome. The set was a perfect blend of old favorites and fresh material from The Prize, kicking off with the album opener Mexico, a song that immediately set the tone with its striking first line: “I dreamt last night that I died and you came to my funeral.” The progression and power in their sound since their last tour was undeniable.
Throughout the night, Kristin McFadden and Louise Macphail seamlessly traded vocals, their closeness and chemistry palpable. Chew My Cheeks transformed into a jaunty, danceable number, its bassline contrasting beautifully with its lyrical depth. Louise beamed as she spoke of their pride in the album—so much so that they brought a trophy and podium on stage to celebrate. The night was made even more special with Kristin’s family flown in from Chicago and Louise’s own family in attendance. “Sorry about all the songs about sex, Mum,” Kristin quipped with a grin.
The emotional weight of their songwriting was felt most deeply in Meryl Streep, where Kristin’s delivery reduced to a whisper for the poignant line, “I miss my best friend.” The rawness of the moment was undeniable, a testament to the deeply personal nature of their music.
Prima Queen’s live shows have always been a comforting and relatable experience, and tonight was no exception. Space Ship, performed solo by Louise, was a stark, vulnerable moment of unrequited love, her gentle vocals plucking at heartstrings across the room.
The night closed with a flurry of early hits, the crowd enthusiastically singing along to Dylan before Eclipse erupted into an electrified, fuzzy, fast-paced finale. Then, in a fitting celebration of friendship, Lilo joined Prima Queen on stage for a supergroup rendition of The Prize, a song that perfectly encapsulates the themes of self-love and camaraderie.
Despite the night’s themes of heartbreak and loss, the overwhelming feeling as the crowd spilled out into the Bristol night was one of joy and upliftment. Prima Queen and Lilo delivered a show that was as emotionally resonant as it was celebratory—a reminder that music, at its best, is both cathartic and communal.
If you get the chance, go see Prima Queen and Lilo live. You won’t regret it.
Words and Pictures by Matt Barnes
