Live Report: KAWALA dance the night away at The Academy

British indie-pop band KAWALA gave an energetic performance at Dublin's Academy on Monday, November 22. With high kicks and dancing galore, the band turned a regular Monday night into a fun celebration of live music.

Opening the night was Clare native Oscar Blue. With music that blends pop, indie and folk influences, Blue performed a six-song set, featuring songs like 'Silhouettes,' '99 Ice Cream' and his latest single 'Backyard Mafia.' The singer-songwriter, who was previously named as one of Hot Press' 'Hot For 2020 Acts,' performed on our Lockdown Sessions' Y&E Series last year.

Oscar Blue supporting Kawala at the Academy on 22/11/21. Photo by: Meryl Prendergast

When the five-piece band finally took to the stage, it was immediately clear that the crowd was in for an energetic, dance-filled night. Jim Higson, one of the lead singers, was jumping around on stage. His dancing was eccentric, which he later recognised when he told the crowd his "dancing has not improved" – though it wouldn't stop him.

The set started with 'Funky,' the second track from the band's first EP D.I.L.Y.D that is exactly as its title suggests – funky. The groovy tune was followed by 'Angry Man,' 'Pure Desire,' 'Animals' and 'Heavy In The Morning.' Each song showcased the band's indie folk sound.

Throughout the set, Higson and Daniel McCarthy, the other lead singer, chatted and bantered with the crowd. McCarthy, in particular, nearly started a riot in The Academy by asking if Cork was the real capital of Ireland, referring to their previous show in Cork.

"I just started a civil war in the Academy in Dublin!" he joked.

Kawala at the Academy. Photo by: Meryl Prendergast

In between original songs, the London-based band took a moment to perform a cover of Griff and HONNE's '1,000,000 X Better,' bringing a stripped-back approach to the electro-pop song. 'Searching,' 'Back Of My Hand' and 'Loosen Up' were played before an unreleased track.

'Runaway' and 'Mighty River' were some of the last songs played during the encore, but the night wouldn't have been complete without a venue-wide sing-along to 'Sweet Caroline.' It cemented the sense of community created by KAWALA's music, bringing people together with live music.

Kawala at the Academy. Photo by: Meryl Prendergast

Listen to the band's latest single below: