Kula Shaker at Shepherd’s Bush Empire

After releasing their acclaimed album First Congregational Church of Eternal Love (and Free Hugs) as well as successfully finishing tours in Europe and Japan, Kula Shaker’s UK stint, travelling from Edinburgh to Exeter, has started. Considering the fact that this was a one-off special date at Shepherd’s Bush Empire, tonight’s show was worthy of notice for those who enjoy post-Britpop inspired by traditional Indian music and culture.

As mysterious bluish lights shone on the band, the show started with Intro, which felt like they were guiding the audience to a Hindu temple, complemented by hypnotic mandala-like images on the screen. Following the mysteriously enchanting opener was Hey Dude – a clever choice as it allowed veteran fans to sing along, bringing a nostalgic value for the middle-aged men with drinks in their hands. Frontman Crispian Mills lived up to the expectations of the loyal crowd with not only his vocal ability but also his classy stage manners.

Balancing between songs infused with Kula Shaker’s interpretations of Indian aesthetics (including Infinite Sun, Jerry Was There and Narayana) and those with melodic hooks and choruses appealing to the Britpop fans (namely Grateful When You’re Dead, Gimme Some Truth and 303), the band succeeded in producing a concert where a group of old friends merrily sang and danced together. Tattva, featuring with a funky and psychedelic Eastern melody, was hailed by the audience as they harmonised with the Sanskrit chorus. Then Hush brought the night’s peak, the power of the uplifting melody uniting everyone in the concert hall. 

Mills’s comments encapsulated the theme of the show: “What the world needs now is love, sweet love; so light up the incense and break out the magic mantra-cake as we’re taking the First Congregational Church of Eternal Love (and Free Hugs) on the road to lift off ’23 with some all-round good vibes.” Given the fact that the venue was full, and the majority of the audience stayed with satisfaction through all three encores (Gokula, Govinda, and Twist and Shout), Kula Shaker achieved their goal to spread their love and joy!

Sora Bae
Photos: Miguel de Melo

For further information and future events visit Kula Shaker’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Narayana here: