KAWALA – Boilershop Newcastle 07.02.2025
Invited| Review by Michael Dunwell
2018 was a golden year for indie music, especially in the North East, where an explosion of incredible bands and unforgettable tracks took over the scene. Festivals thrived, venues like Think Tank were brimming with energy, and the music was simply impossible to ignore. Among the standout acts of that time was London-based KAWALA, a band that still holds a special place in my heart. Sadly, Friday night at The Boiler Shop marked their final show in Newcastle as part of their farewell tour.
The gig took place at the iconic Boiler Shop, located just a stone’s throw from Newcastle’s central train station. Known for its superb acoustics, impressive beer selection (with both local and international brews), and consistently welcoming atmosphere, it’s a local gem. After the show, we made our way to the Ouseburn district, just a short metro ride away. I can’t recommend it enough to any music lover, regardless of age. With lively music bars, cosy pubs, and great food across top-notch venues, it’s the perfect spot for a post-gig pint.
KAWALA is made up of Jim Higson (vocals), Daniel McCarthy (guitar, vocals), Ben Batten (drums), Reeve Coulson (bass), and Dan Lee (guitar). Together, they create a sound that blends youthful nostalgia with irresistible funk, weaving calypso-inspired grooves that come to life in a live setting. From the moment they hit the stage, the band exuded energy, but as the night progressed, they also brought a raw, emotional depth that connected deeply with the audience.
One of the most unforgettable moments was when the crowd coaxed Jim and Daniel into joining them in the audience to sing “Mighty River.” It was an incredibly intimate moment, filled with emotion—a perfect example of the powerful connection between the band and their fans. That moment, where the song, crowd, and band seemed perfectly in tune, will stay with me long after the show ended.
Another highlight was hearing “Moonlight” from their 2019 EP Counting the Miles. The track really came alive on stage, its energy contagious as the crowd danced and sang along. It was a reminder of just how many timeless tracks KAWALA has in their catalogue. One standout is “Never Really Here For Long,” with its driving acoustic guitars, reminiscent of Circa Waves, and a country-inspired drumming style that brought to mind Bombay Bicycle Club. On that note, it was amazing to see Bombay Bicycle Club’s drummer, Suren de Saram, join them on stage for the night. Daniel McCarthy explained that Bombay Bicycle Club had been a major influence on their sound, and seeing them perform alongside one of their heroes was a beautiful full-circle moment, highlighting the journey of a band that has made such an impact on its fans.
In conclusion, the indie scene of 2018 was full of incredible talent, and KAWALA is a prime example. With their impressive catalogue of unforgettable tracks, they’ve solidified their place in the hearts of their fans. Even if this farewell tour marks the end of their journey together, KAWALA’s legacy will live on through Spotify playlists and cherished memories.
While I hope that, after some time to experiment and recharge, the band reunites to create new music, I’d love to hear the album they might produce after this well-earned break. However, if this truly is their final bow, Friday night’s show in Newcastle was a perfect send-off for a band that has made such a meaningful impact. While you may not get to see them live in Newcastle again, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into their music. Who knows? Maybe one day, the chance to experience the magic of KAWALA live will come again.