LIVE REVIEW: Calva Louise @ The Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes
Hailing from all over the world CALVA LOUISE brings three cultures together like never before. Although their roots are in Venezuela, France and New Zealand, Calva Louise are a British-based band. From beginnings in London’s underground scene in 2016, to performing at Download Festival in 2024, this group has been a strong player in the music scene throughout the last decade.
The crowd settles in as the lights go down, eagerly awaiting the first act. Moments later the lights reactivate and KNIFE BRIDE takes the stage. Opening the show with incredible energy, KNIFE BRIDE’s mixture of metal, rock and gothic genres really sets the scene for the night ahead. Constantly shifting around the stage, their energy is unstoppable. Headbanging and thrashing alike, they provide an incredible visual show on top of their already gripping audible performance.
With mentions of their latest EP, Sorry For The Plague, the band is actively and successfully marketing themselves to the crowd throughout their performance. Although this is rendered unnecessary, as their already extraordinary set speaks for itself.
Rating: 9/10
It would take some effort to follow such an incredible performance from KNIFE BRIDE, and CALVA LOUISE were ready to take on the task. As they take to the stage, starting their headliner set off with Tunnel Vision, the crowd erupts once again. Their dynamic presence captivates the entire room, with their boundless energy making its way into the crowd, causing the formation of a mosh pit within the space of a few minutes. Their music spans a mixture of metal, electronica, punk and rock genres, making their sound unmatched and inimitable. It’s clear to see how well all of their personalities and mannerisms mesh together during the performance. With astounding riffs coming from the bassist, Alizon Taho, as fan favourites ring out through the speakers.
Part way through their set, the band stops to show their appreciation to the crowd for all their support. With such a commanding presence over the crowd, there are no inflated egos in sight, a mutual respect is felt passing between the band and their audience. Their conversation with the crowd is light-hearted and friendly, telling their story to eager observers.
When the music starts up again, the once bubbly personality of vocalist, guitarist and keyboardist, Jess Allanic, shifts into a new frame. With her hardcore, metal vocals highlighting her incredible range, as their set continues. Their self-made visuals light up the stage, telling a story to the onlooking crowd. Every part of their performance, awe-inspiring. Keeping the audience hooked on every note. Each beat, struck by the band’s drummer, Ben Parker, embraced by the crowd as the heartbeat of the concert.
With this being only the third date of their current UK tour, and their first ever event in Milton Keynes, it’s safe to say, CALVA LOUISE definitely made a lasting and impactful impression.
Rating: 10/10
Check out our photo gallery of the night’s action in Milton Keynes from India Seunarayan here:
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