The Cribs at Somerset House

There’s nothing quite like trading a hot central London afternoon for a breezy, music-filled courtyard evening in the middle of July. When British indie rock band The Cribs took to the Somerset House stage as part of the open venue’s festival, Summer Series, they gave exactly that – along with a loud, gloriously chaotic set that showed the band still thrive on instinct and energy.

As daylight gradually faded, vibrant lighting transformed the space into a striking setting that complemented The Cribs’ raw sound. Visually, the performance captured the relaxed spirit of a summer outdoor concert.

The show’s greatest strength, however, lay in the musicianship and chemistry between brothers Gary, Ryan and Ross Jarman. Years of performing together have given the trio an instinctive understanding of one another, obvious in their seamless interplay, tightly interlocking guitars and the momentum of their garage-rock sound.

Their trademark DIY authenticity stayed central to the performance, favouring the type of spontaneity that suits their live sound. A well-balanced setlist combined fan favourites, as well as material from their latest album, Selling a Vibe. The inclusion of Housewife was particularly fascinating – a rarely aired, synth-driven 2010 single whose infectious energy felt instantly at home alongside The Cribs’ classic hits.

The music translated well to the open air, though Somerset House’s historic stone walls naturally added a layer of reverb that occasionally swallowed the vocal detail. While the instrumental intensity suited The Cribs’ characteristically gritty style, lead vocals were often lost in the mix, making some lyrical moments difficult to fully appreciate.

That said, the band’s momentum rarely faltered. As the set progressed, the crowd became increasingly animated, with tracks Come On, Be a No-One and the cathartic Be Safe drawing some of the night’s strongest reactions.

Closing the night with an explosive rendition of Pink Snow – complete with a whimsical shower of foam sprinkles across the courtyard – the Cribs brought their Somerset House performance to a fitting close, embodying the unfiltered charm that has continued to shape their live shows. The evening ultimately showcased a band that remains comfortable in its own identity, balancing familiarity with the unpredictability that keeps their sound compelling.

Dionysia Afolabi
Photos: Virginie Viche

For further information and future events, visit The Cribs’s website here.

Watch the video for Never the Same here: