Otherkin at Our Black Heart

Dublin-based four-piece Otherkin electrified Camden’s rock haven, Our Black Heart, for their first ever London gig last night. Following the success of their first EP, The 201, the band released a taste of their next EP with brilliant single I Was Born just last Friday, and made sure their London debut left a lasting impression.

With no time to waste, Otherkin kicked off the night with fun, alt-punk tune, 20 to 11. Under the dim blue-green lights of the cramped room, the boys sported unzipped leather, long, sweaty fringes and abiding vibrancy – it was just like an old-school punk gig movie scene. Showcasing a surprising range of musical styles, the group brought out their indie-pop hit, Feel It, turning the room into a feel-good sanctum. Jumping onto the drum kit, head-banging and making sure everybody was clapping, frontman Luke Reilly was a show in himself.

From Conor Wynne’s dirty guitar distortions and Rob Summons’ ridiculously loud drumming to Reilly’s gruff, raspy voice, grunge-pop track Love’s a Liability had the venue in a frenzy. Otherkin devotees were in for quite a treat, as the band performed unreleased tracks from their next EP, including grungy sensation Yeah, I Know and pop-punk tune Howling.

And as if that wasn’t enough, as soon as Reilly’s signature vest came off, the night only got better. Jumping off stage into the crowd, he checked repeatedly that everybody was having fun; the intimacy was real and the zest was infectious. Drinks in the air and a harmonious sing-along to the catchy chorus, Otherkin’s hit song Ay Ay found Wynne on the sticky floor, belting an impressive solo amid the pulsating crowd. But sadly, every show must come to an end, and neither the band nor Our Black Heart wanted this one to. Ending the night with fierce track So So, Otherkin left the room in a sweaty, pumped-up state – a gig gone right.

For them, it was clear that it was all about the music and the fans. Inviting some of the crowd on stage, the energy and passion were mutual – the best chemistry you could ask for. The perfect melange of Blur meets Nirvana meets the Ramones, the Dublin boys are the definition of an unforgettable gig experience.

Naomi Schanen
Photo: Gregory Nolan

For further information about Otherkin and future events visit here.

Watch the video for I Was Born here: