Formed in Brighton only five years ago, YONAKA are the latest band to tear up the highly populated alt-rock scene. Previously, the band have supported Bring Me the Horizon and have had their song ‘F.W.T.B’ remixed by Grandson. Earlier this year, the band released their first album, ‘Don’t Wait Till Tomorrow’ and on the strength of this are midway through a UK wide tour. We were invited to see them at SWX in the heart of Bristol, read on to see how the evening unfolded.

As I entered the venue, I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I’ve been a fan of YONAKA after falling in love with their song ‘Bubblegum’ (lifted from their first EP: HEAVY) and whilst I was familiar with some of their new material, I was still unsure how the show was going to go.

The entertainment was kicked off by a singer called RUSALKA, she played a beautiful set with only a keyboard. Her voice reminded me of classic Kate Bush (which is never a bad thing) as she filled the room with a range of amazing original songs.

Next up was ZUZU, the grungy pop singer from Liverpool who lit up the stage with her scouse charm as she shouted ‘come give us a snog after’. ZUZU doesn’t give a care in the world as she got the whole crowd hyped as she sang about topics such as past loves. I particularly loved her cover of ‘Truth Hurts’ by Lizzo. ZUZU has, by far been one of my favourite support acts in a while and I look forward to hearing big stuff from her.

By this point, the whole of SWX was filled and buzzing for YONAKA to take to the stage. As the lights went down, screams from the adoring Bristol fans filled the room. The boundless energy was received back from the band, as from the first song, they got the whole room bouncing along.

One thing that really stood out for me throughout the show is how the lead singer, Theresa Jarvis, created a massive emphasis on mental health. Various moments throughout the show, she told the crowd that they should never feel alone and to go talk to people if they are feeling down. It is always refreshing to hear a band talk about issues that are affecting so many people as music plays such an integral part in helping people who are going through tough times and gives them something to relate to.

Later on, I made my way up to the balcony to get a better view of the stage. I watched in awe as Jarvis made her own way to the crowd and gripped onto the hands of fans as she sang the lyrics directly to them. I have never seen a band interact more with their fans at a show as I have with YONAKA.

For the closing song, the band played their brilliant song ‘F.W.T.B’ which saw guitarist George Edwards jumping the barrier and playing from the mosh pit, helping to create a fantastic end to what was for me (and no doubt everyone else in the room) an incredible performance.

I first saw YONAKA on a BBC Introducing stage at the Radio 1 Big Weekend in Powderham (nr Exeter) where they played to a handful of people, 3 years on, they are filling large venues around the country, fast forward another 3 years and I dare say that they will be filling arenas, catch them live when you can, you won’t be disappointed!

Words and Pictures – Megan Barnett