The Paper Kites at Somerset House

The Paper Kites at Somerset House was the epitome of a perfect summer night in London. Hailing all the way from Melbourne, Australia, the easy-listening five-piece took the crowd on a trance-inducing journey to their folksy dreamland where they played a combination of old and new tracks, from Til the Flame Turns Blue to When the Lavender Blooms.

Known for their emotional authenticity and melancholic elegance, as well as their meticulous songwriting, The Paper Kites have undoubtedly evolved and expanded their musical and artistic repertoire since forming in 2009. A musical sound that was once exclusively rooted in mellow fingerstyle folk has, over time developed with subtle accents of Americana, dream-pop and Indie tones.

The scenic view in the courtyard, from the pink twighlight sky to nightfall, combined with piercing auburn lights, was a truly mesmerising setting, a sensorial and immersive experience that undoubtedly left an afterglow on all alternative-rock lovers and indie souls. The fact that it was the band’s only UK date on their 2025 tour made it all the more exclusive and special.

The kings of serenity opened the show with a golden oldie from their 2013 album States, St Clarity, a deeply romantic song that evokes a sense of weariness associated with longing and hope. Fan favourites such as Paint and Bloom were particularly memorable moments that illuminated the stage with a grandiose energy, encouraging a palpable interaction and engagement with the audience that was heartfelt and bold despite their hypnotising acoustic, folksy sound. Frontman Sam Bentley’s effortless and gentle yet sarcastic humour shone as he told brief anecdotes and responded to fans heckling song requests, “You get what you get!” A special guest included Rosie Carney, who treated the crowd to her powerful and majestic vocals for their collaborative single By My Side. As if the fans were not spoiled enough for magic and special guests, Bentley also introduced another band onstage, Flyte, a London-based duo known for their confessional writing style and indie roots.

Nina Doroushi
Photos: LA Benoit

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

Watch the video for Pocket Full of Rain here: