Folly Group // King Tuts //16.03.24

Folly Group returned to the King Tuts stage (we last seen them here a few months previous supporting Geese) having capably amassed a honourable following to call their own.

Outside the streets are awash with a deluge of drizzle. Inside King Tuts are having their own alternative St.Patrick’s Day bash with the promise of Fontaines D.C. furnishing the after party soundtrack via a DJ Set.

Folly Group are an unlikely assemblage of peers, formed in London as former flat mates. The band Led by Sean Harper (singer and drummer), Kai  Akinde Hummel (percussion), Tom Dehorty (guitar) and Louis Milburn (bass), took to the stage at King Tut’s in Glasgow, delivering a performance that was nothing short of electrifying.

With an eclectic mix of influences ranging from The Rapture’s danceable grooves to Massive Attack’s atmospheric vibes and ESG’s minimalist funk, the band captivated the audience from the first note to the last.

The band are currently touring their long awaited debut LP “Down There”, having previously teased us with some truly captivating singles it’s great to see these guys sinking thier teeth into something more concrete.

Opening with the absolute stomp of a track that is “Awake and Hungry,” Folly Group wasted no time in setting the tone for the evening. The crowd was immediately drawn in by the infectious energy emanating from the stage, unable to resist the urge to move to the beat.

As the set progressed, the band seamlessly transitioned between tracks, each one a testament to their versatility and creativity. “Four Wheel Drive” showcased their ability to blend genres, effortlessly fusing elements of post-punk and electronic music into a completely new colourful creature of its own.

“East Flat Crows” saw the band delving into darker territory, showcasing Harpers depth of tone in his vocal range, he looks like like a young Keanu Reeves but has the gravely undertones of Tom Waits after a bout of laryngitis, all served on a bed of double percussion.

But it was tracks like “Pressure Pad” and “Fashionista” that truly set Folly Group apart, with their infectious hooks and irresistible bass grooves. I mean who doesn’t love double cow bells? The crowd couldn’t help but dance along, swept up in the band’s tight performance.

There is even room for comparison with Glasgow’s very own Humour – unsurprising then when Harper jokes about live streaming a midnight closet reveal as they seem to be crashing at thier flat this evening. With several mentions of staying to hang out with the band at the merch desk the gig has a very welcoming and open flat party vibe to it.

As the set drew to a close, Folly Group treated the audience to a flurry of fan favorites, including “I’ll Do What I Can” and “Strange Neighbour,” each one leaving the crowd begging for more. By the time they launched into the anthemic “Frame,” the entire venue was in a state of toe tapping, head bopping joy.

In the end, Folly Group’s performance at King Tut’s was nothing short of spectacular. With their unique blend of influences and undeniable talent, they proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with on the live music scene.

Words Angela Canavan ( @zombiefang_ )

Pictures Angela Canavan

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