Kula Shaker at Electric Ballroom

English psychedelic rock group Kula Shaker is entirely unique: frontman Crispian Mills, bassist Alonza Bevan, drummer Paul Winterhart and keyboardist Jay Darlington have worked in unison to create a one-of-a-kind sound. Although the quartet have faced backlash regarding their affinity for Indian culture and music, they have seen impressive success in the charts, especially during their early days together. Their seventh studio album, Natural Magick, was released in February, and the band have embarked on a lengthy tour across Europe to celebrate this latest accomplishment. Last night, Kula Shaker arrived at the Electric Ballroom in Camden and treated fans to a set of 23 songs.

For an hour and a half, the group took attendees on a fast-paced ride throughout their discography. Images similar to the look of the inside of a lava lamp danced across the walls as each track played to establish the ambience of the gig, while the faint smell of patchouli incense coated every corner of the venue. Each tune was played with ease, and quick transitions between songs certainly satisfied fans. Darlington’s work on the organ was other-worldly, and the balance between his keys, Mills’ guitar, Bevan’s bass and Winterhart’s drums was smooth and seamless; the crowd was dialled in no matter what played. 

Gaslighting was the opening track and truly set the scene for the night. The raspy-talk style that Mills often utilises introduced everything that Kula Shaker can be: slight post-Britpop vocals mixed with highlights from Darlington’s organ and Mills’s typical buzzing 60s-inspired guitar riffs showcased the band’s capabilities. Hey Dude is considered to be a classic, and this live performance was exciting and even more groovy than the studio version lets on. Waves followed and set the crowd ablaze as the percussion rang through the venue and attendees joined in singing with the band. Mills may not be overly fond of audience interactions, but he somehow managed to engage with hundreds of fans regardless.

Although the gig was excellent in terms of instrumental execution and quality, it is uncertain if the band’s many references to Indian culture are fairly represented. The group puts on a good show, but it was interesting for this writer to consider how audiences respond to their exploration of cultural and religious themes outside their own heritage. Skill can take a band far, but clear appreciation for their influences is just as valuable. By encouraging a live call and response of Sanskrit in songs like Govinda, Tattva or Chura Liya (You Stole My Heart) with an audience who potentially may not know the meaning of what they were singing, and hardly acknowledging their Indian guest performers when they assisted the band during songs, this performance lacked the proof of appreciation that critics have questioned since Kula Shaker’s debut. 

Regardless, the crowd was clearly filled with superfans who enjoyed every aspect of the gig, suggesting that their music, firmly rooted in its time, continues to hold its appeal. While a Kula Shaker concert may not resonate with everyone, the band seems to be quite content with their audience.

Taryn Crowley
Photos: Mike Garnell

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

Watch the video for the single here: