PIAF REVIEW: KITTY, DAISY & LEWIS AT CHEVRON FESTIVAL GARDENS

Performing their 4th studio album Superscope to a Perth audience for the first time, the siblings from North London brought a rainy Chevron Gardens to life over the weekend. The show was supported by local Perth group Boat Show. Whilst I did not catch the entirety of their set,  it seemed that they kept most punters happy in the lead up to the main event. Some of the songs did seem better suited to a pub setting, as opposed to an open air venue such as the the festival gardens. 

Early into their set, KDL announced that it was the last show of their Australian tour which immediately prepared us for a very raw and messy set. The first half of their set comprised of songs from their new album which felt like an evolution from roots to mainstream rock.  However these songs were interspersed with crowd-favourite Baby Bye Bye. Amongst the plethora of new tracks was a standout called Whole Lotta Love. When announced, we expected Lewis to break into a guitar rift a la Jimmy Page but alas it was an original. 

Much like previous performances in Perth, all siblings showcased their talent on all instruments. Kitty was observed to be the strongest drummer in the group, Daisy best on harp, whilst Lewis was the best 'all round' instrumentalist. New additions to their sound included an older rhythm guitarist and new bass player joined the group to replace their mother who had previously toured with them. TATA, the Jamaican trumpet player once again joined the group on stage for a couple of ska influenced tunes to great applause. He never really wanted to leave the stage but we noticed Daisy give him a signal to get off after the song.

The remainder of the set was quite solid including my personal favourite No Action, however some of the new songs being somewhat underwhelming. KDL finished off with a rousing version of Goin Up the Country that had the whole crowd down on the floor dancing. When it was time for the encore, the siblings returned with a blues jam, Daisy's harp made an appearance, Kitty relaxed into the drum kit and Lewis laid into the guitar. Following this, the entire band joined them onstage for the Grand Finale: Mean Mean Son of Gun.

KDL's set was a dynamic, multi-instrumental jam session, playing to each sibling's natural strengths. For this, I considered them a consistent and easy choice when making my selection of the Perth Festival listings of 2018. If you have the opportunity to catch them when they are next in Perth, I highly recommend it.