Kodaline at Islington Assembly Hall

Riding high on a wave of hype this year are Irish four-piece Kodaline, who have experienced a whirlwind rise to fame. Kodaline’s debut EP was well received on its release last September,  and since then they have been featured on the BBC Sound of 2013 list, have had a song featured on Grey’s Anatomy and been championed by Fearne Cotton on Radio One. 

Now on the cusp of releasing their debut album In a Perfect World, Kodaline perform their new material in the beautiful Islington Assembly Hall before they start their summer of festivals. But do they live up to the hype?

Kodaline take to the stage for a short set showcasing their incredible live sound. Everything about them is professionally polished, from their boy-band good looks to their slick harmonies and effective lighting. They seem to not quite believe that they have come so far in such a short time: humble and thankful to the crowd, they come across as genuine, which is a refreshing change.

As a band they are tight, and the sound is flawless. Their pop-rock style may be predictable at times but the songs are so well-written and played that you forget you have never heard them before. Singing with passion and soul, Steve Garrigan carries the effect with a voice so impressive and emotive it’s hard not to be won over. Set highlight Bring It on Home (a cover of a Sam Cooke song) is performed with only acoustic guitar and no PA system, and has the audience clicking along to mark the beat. The result is magical.

Kodaline have been getting a lot of radio airplay and the inclusion of their version of Disclosure’s Latch is inspired, pleasing their fans at this intimate gig. Saving their best for last, it is final song All I Want that impresses most of all. A slow-burning anthem that will definitely become one of their future set highlights, you would have to have the hardest of hearts not to throw up your hands and join in with the crescendo.

Kodaline play anthemic pop-rock and are destined for big things. Their songs are written to be heard in stadiums and on the festival circuit. Don’t simply dismiss them as the next Coldplay or Snow Patrol – they have so much more to offer. This time, the hype is justified.

Verdict: ★★★★★

Martin Broadley
Photos: Chiara Ceccaioni 

For further information about Kodaline and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Love Like This here: