Hard Rock Calling Festival: Klaxons bring nu-rave to Queen Elizabeth Park

Nu-Rave. Neon, glow-sticks, lycra fashion. Remember it? The music press championed the Klaxons as one of the biggest purveyors of the genre. Fast-forward a few years and the Klaxons still know how to throw a party.

Slightly oddball to the day’s listings, the Klaxons play to a rammed tent at Hard Rock Calling, showing that they have not lost any of their pop power. With a set spanning new and old material alike, the Klaxons entertain a crowd desperate to hear something other than straightforward indie rock.

They don’t disappoint. Playing Atlantis to Interzone early on in the set, the Klaxons remind the crowd of why they loved them to begin with. The band have been known for their eccentric style, sporting metallic jackets and an especially attractive silver metallic shirt. The band roll through their biggest hit to a huge reception.

Clearly excited to be back playing live in London, the Klaxons play as if they are headlining the festival, with character and purpose. Offering something that no other band on the line-up do, the crowd is entranced by their every move.

Golden Skans reappears as a fantastic fan favourite song from their Mercury Prize winning first album Myths of the Near Future. The audience sing back to the band with great gusto. The atmosphere in the tent feels as if it is a comeback gig. Everyone in the crowd is clearly waiting to hear their next track with great anticipation.

For an early evening set, Klaxons know how to work a crowd. They deliver one of the highlights of the day, not by being the best band, but by knowing what a crowd want from a festival band. That is high energy, great sing-alongs and lots of encouraged dancing. Long may the Klaxons reign.

Verdict: ★★★★★

Martin Broadley

Photo: Andrea Rossi

For further information about Klaxons and next year dates visit here.

Watch the video for Golden Skans here: