The Kooks launch Never/Know at Notting Hill Arts Club

The Kooks have long been a staple of the British indie scene, with a career spanning nearly two decades. From their breakout album Inside In/Inside Out to their ever-evolving sound, the Brighton band has remained a fan favourite within the industry. Now, after a three-year hiatus, they’re back with their latest single, Never Know. To celebrate, the band treated fans to an exclusive launch event at the legendary Notting Hill Arts Club.

The venue, known for its industrial-esque look and underground energy, has a history of hosting emerging talent and so provided the perfect backdrop for The Kooks’s reinvention. The band, better known as a three-piece, are embarking on a future of just two – with lead singer Luke Pritchard and guitarist/bassist Hugh Harris fronting the forthcoming release. The dimly lit space was adorned with projections of the two, teasing the duo’s upcoming single and to the surprise of attendees – Never/Know, an on-the-night announced album due to land in May.

In homage to their career as indie icons, the event was promoted as a club night to remember, blending the energy of a live music launch with the intimate atmosphere of the venue. Taking to the stage to deliver a short yet powerful set, the duo, accompanied by some supporting musicians, offered a taste of what’s to come on Never/Know. The title track was immediately captivating, opening with a whistling instrumental and moving into a dazzling blend of soulful organ melodies and indie guitar riffs. The Mo-town-inspired number is a love song about enjoying the moment with somebody special, as you never know what might come next.

Much of the album teased so far seems to follow the band’s experiment with sound and genre, connected by a thread of positivity, and is no doubt about to soundtrack many a summer this year. Sunny Baby is another standout of the set; reminiscent of tropical-themed hits of the 80s, it’s a stark yet welcomed contrast to the basement location.

Keeping the classics until last, 2006 hit Naive closes things in spectacular fashion. Its unmatched energy is a tasteful nod to The Kook’s journey as a band and their refusal to be seen as a one-hit-wonder.

For The Kooks, this single and their eminent seventh album marks another step in their evolution, blending their signature indie sound with modern influences. If Never Know is anything to go by, fans have plenty to look forward to.

Katherine Parry
Photos: Courtesy of The Kooks

Never/Know is out on 9^th May 2025. For further information and future events visit The Kooks’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Never Know here: