A packed out O2 Academy, Bristol witnessed Merseyside's finest set the tone for the summer in preparation for their second album, the follow up to hugely successful debut ‘I Wonder If The World Knows?’, and the crowd went wild for it.
First we had 2 fantastic support bands, adding up to one of the strongest lineups I have in Bristol for a long time. Opening were Lady of Mars , an indie rock band from London who have been gigging hard since 2024, including appearances at festivals including 2000 Trees, Lakefest, Sign of the Times and The Gathering Sound. The band put on a lively show, songs with a raw edge and a penchant for fantastic guitar solos. They definitely picked up some new fans in Bristol and with their first single due out on 29th May and a return to Bristol on 24th June, supporting Mitch Sanders at The Louisiana, life is looking good for Lady of Mars. Tickets available here for the Louisiana show.
Next up was Day We Ran, a guitar-driven rock band hailing from Lennox Head, NSW, Australia. Fusing the laid-back vibes of indie surf rock with captivating vocal harmonies, the band has dazzled audiences across Australia and New Zealand. With a growing international following and a track featured on Netflix’s Outer Banks, Day We Ran are ready to take their unique sound to a global stage. From the moment they stepped on stage they looked like they were having the time of their lives, I'm not sure I have ever seen a band smile so much. The music was good and the crowd, although here to see The K's, couldn't help to respond as the sheer joy being witnessed on stage was infectious. A brilliant set and a fantastic warm up.
With The K's new album Pretty on the Internet due out on 27th June, The K’s are embarking upon a run of dates across the UK. They arrive at the O2 Academy here in Bristol nearly 2 years since last here, supporting The Reytons in October 2023. The K’s swiftly became one of the most exciting and successful new British bands of last year and the crowd were reaching fever pitch as they hit the stage. Kicking off with the latest single from the new album 'Gravestone', the reception from the crowd was deafening, the place went off.
Singer Jamie Boyle surveyed the crowd with his trademark stance, one foot up on the monitor, guitar slung low and they sung along to every word. Guitarist Ryan Breslin prowled around the stage, guitar slung even lower than Jamie's, providing those driving guitar chords. The set was made up of mainly the debut album, bookended with just the 2 new tracks from the upcoming second album.
A top night in Bristol, 3 bands at the top of their game. Pre-save the new album 'Pretty on the Internet' here
The K’s are Jamie Boyle (vocals/guitar), Ryan Breslin (guitar/keyboards), Dexter Baker (bass) and Nathan Peers (drums).
Words and Pictures by Glenn Morrison
