I can’t think of any other words to describe witnessing Florence Road’s secret gig in Bello Bar last night other than a true privilege. The four piece, comprising vocalist Lily Aron, guitarist Emma Brandon, bassist Ailbhe Barry, and drummer Hannah Kelly.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

Childhood friends from Wicklow, the group possesses the ability to shift seamlessly from delicate ballads to heavier garage-rock, nailing it every time. Despite being a secret gig, the venue was brimming with expectant listeners, each fan clamouring and hoping for a spot closest to the stage where intimate proximity to the treasured group could be felt.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

Amid excited screams from the crowd, the group known lovingly by fans as Flo Ro launched into their latest single, ‘Figure It Out’, a grungy fuzzy rock tune with a fantastic growling guitar and bassline. Despite only being released last week, the audience sang along to every word, much to the group’s delight.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

An ongoing theme from the evening was the palpable sense of joy radiating throughout the venue, from the band members themselves to each audience member. It was evident that all of us were having an absolute ball.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

A firm fan favourite, ‘Heavy’ was received enthusiastically, as its cool opening bars built into the indie-rock/garage pop chorus, fit with its blistering guitar and irresistible vocals. The track possesses an undeniable magic quality, with reminiscent echoes of The Cranberries and Wolf Alice.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

Amongst the heavier tracks, Florence Road deftly intertwined grunge with softness, with vocalist Lily taking a seat to serenade us with ‘Caterpillar’. A song about feeling anxious, the chorus lyrics wrapping themselves around the crowd like a comfort blanket as Lily sang, “Is there somethin’ inside of me, makin’ me believe that black is white? Is there somethin’ I can’t defeat? Well, maybe I should try and sleep tonight, sleep tonight”. As the song progressed into its strong, emotional climax, Lily’s powerful voice shone through elegantly.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

Teasing new songs from their upcoming debut mixtape Fall Back, fans know they’re in for a treat, with the project dropping on June 20. Charismatic, playful, charming and talented, Florence Road maintained what the kids call an immaculate vibe (insert sparkle emoji). In between bantering with the crowd, we were presented with the opportunity to truly appreciate the level of musicianship and instrumental prowess on display. At one stage drummer Hannah Kelly took to the keyboard, and extra members joined to add a dash of violin and cello to the already superb sound.

Florence Road at Bello Bar. Copyright @ Hana May / Hotpress

After finishing their set with the brilliant new track, ‘Goodnight’, Flo Ro returned to the stage, beckoned back following excited cheers of “one more tune”, the crowd reluctant to let their beloved group get away that easily. For their encore the band broke into their poppy upbeat 2022 track, ‘another seventeen’.

A new band on my radar, I will certainly be staying tuned and can’t wait to watch the group on their continued rise to fame, because I am sure they’re destined to become the well-deserved next big thing.