INHEAVEN | LIVE REVIEW
Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Sat 14 Oct
Hailing from south London, indie-rock band Inheaven played their first ever show in Wales at Cardiff’s renowned Clwb Ifor Bach. Opening band King Nun blew up the venue with their loud, heavy instrumental sound, whilst Bloxx’s fun, indie vibe and catchy lyrics got the crowd moving.
The scene was customised with red roses entwined around Inheaven’s equipment and red lights flooding the stage for their entrance. Frontman James Taylor even came dressed for the occasion, his floral shirt decorated with an extra, symbolic flower. The band had certainly established their aesthetics.
Bassist Chloe Little, resplendent in dyed pink hair and flared stripe trousers, led the vocals during Treats, where her sassy confidence radiated from a beaming smile. The atmosphere and vibe was friendly and lively: Bloxx having previously thanked Inheaven in the process of readying the crowd for the headliners, Inheaven guitarist Jake Lucas showed support to King Nun by wearing a T-shirt with their name emblazoned on it.
The small bottom floor room of Clwb Ifor Bach, lacking in a stage as it does, placed the bands and the fans on the same level and made the show extra intimate and personal. Security waved the crowd back, trying to make space between the fans and the band, but Inheaven insisted on bringing everyone closer. Taylor initiated applause and appreciation for one especially energised fan who displayed his dedication throughout the set.
Inheaven triumphed this evening, living up to their tour’s title Gods Of Rock thanks to their solid vocals and limitless energy. Songs like Vultures and World On Fire sparked passion amongst the crowd, resulting in some chaotic, room-shaking moshpits. Wales may have been a first for the band, but Cardiff made them feel welcome enough that it’s unlikely to be their last.
words and photos AMY FARRER