Live Review: Calva Louise, Bobby Wolfgang & Tropic Gold at Omeara, London (11/07/24)

London Bridge isn’t the first place that comes to mind when thinking of live shows, but it just so happens that a small and unique venue called Omeara happens to be there. I’ve been to pretty much every venue London has to offer, yet this is a brand-new place for me and it’s pretty damn cool. Looking great, feeling spacious, and having great sound (although earplugs are a must here).

It’s the latter that massively benefits Tropic Gold, the opening band on this three-bill show. A band who are making a hell of a name for themselves and rising in prominence. Especially off the back of the latest track, Happy. Omeara is pretty busy already and there can be no surer sign of a band’s popularity, even if a hefty portion of the crowd seem more mildly interested rather than excited to see Tropic Gold.

It’s hard to get too excited though as the alternative metal and EDM-infused rock band aren’t exactly on fire tonight. They sound great, all the elements have clarity, but a lot of their music is bland sounding and that results in a pretty forgettable live show. Harsh? Absolutely, as it’s totally down to personal taste and the appeal of Tropic Gold is clear to see. They have a bright future ahead of them, and there is no doubt that they will be headlining venues like this (and bigger) in the years to come.

Then along comes Bobby Wolfgang to blow them off the stage and nearly steal the show with a hyperactive and thrilling showcase of electronica, punk, and hardcore. The artist, best known for his work in Strange Bones, is on incredible form in the Omeara and that energy he brings is replicated in the crowd.

Especially when he gets to the floor, has everyone hunker down with him, before leaping up and creating a chaotic looking pit. Such an awesome moment. Heavy, fast, intense, infectious, and gnarly, Bobby Wolfgang impressed.

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♬ original sound – GBHBL

Speaking of impressive though, it’s Calva Louise and this tour follows a very lauded showing at Download earlier on June. Lauded for good reason though as they are a band well and truly on the rise and any doubts I had about what they are capable of is well and truly put to bed at this show.

One word can sum up Calva Louise and that word is anthemic. Yet, this comes from their incredible ability to be infectiously groovy, daringly rocky, scathingly heavy, and effectively danceable. All with a ton of heart and soul. They have superstars written all over them and while their stage presence is reserved, confidence oozes from this band.

This means a lot to them, and lead vocals/guitarist Jess does seem a little overwhelmed with emotion at times. Connections are being made here, there’s electricity in the air, and many are lost in the catchy rhythmic buzz of a Calva Louise show. It’s not just beautiful to witness, it’s heartening and exciting. Calva Louise matter to many people and seeing them live is affecting.

Their time on stage flies by, and while it does end quite early (there’s some confusion in the crowd over this), there are no disappointed faces as everyone begins to file out.

@gbhbl

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♬ original sound – GBHBL