Clean Cut Kid took to the infamous Welsh venue, Clwb Ifor Bach, as part of this year’s SWN festival, following support sets from Hunter (who stepped in for the injured Marcians) and Callum Beattie.
The Liverpudlian rockers stepped on stage in Wales for the first time without previous bassist Saul, now replaced by Craig. Craig has big boots to fill, so I admire his bravery. Even though he wasn’t as joyous as Saul, he definitely knows how to play bass and looked very happy to do so. He fitted into the band well, sporting what seemed to be matching tattoos with the rest of the group.
The four-piece delivered a classic Clean Cut Kid show on Welsh turf. Leading man Mike announced, “It’s so cool to be back in Wales, that’s mega,” which is one way to win the hearts of a Welsh audience from the start. They played their album from start to finish, mixing the order to suit the live audience, and introduced Mike as “the man whose job isn’t to be seen.” This joke seems to never get old, both for the crowd and the band themselves.
Starting with “Runaway” and “Stay,” the set transitioned into a slowed-down section featuring “Jean” and “Brother of Mine.” This band knows how to put on a great show, one that certainly grabs the audience not only because of its upbeat catchiness but also due to the story behind “Evelyn.” As it’s a song Mike wrote about his wife and keyboardist, Evelyn, it creates an immediate connection with the crowd.
I cannot wait for this band’s journey to continue.
