The BBC 6 Music Festival was in full swing last weekend, with world-renowned acts travelling to Cardiff to share their music. The Saturday evening saw St Davids Hall host headliners Khruangbin, a band all the way from Texas with a unique, globally-inspired sound. Preceding the headliners are Ezra Collective, pioneers of London’s neo-Jazz scene. 

The quintet’s energetic performance rightly raised the crowd from their seats last night, with their eccentric tunes that have brought jazz into a new age. Their experimental music is packed with reggae and afrobeat influence, creating an intriguing fusion, and bandleader Femi Koleoso’s talent and energy particularly captivated the whole audience. It was clear Ezra Collective enjoyed performing as much as we enjoyed the performance – not to mention their grateful and touching shoutout to supportive small venues, like Cardiff’s late lamented Gwdihw.

Khruangbin went on to provide the full package of a psychedelic performance. The Houston trio were visually captivating with extravagant outfits, their presence complemented by dazzling, perfectly-timed stage lights. Their stoic stage presence combined with Mark Speer and Laura Lee’s in-time hip movements served to create a visually transformative experience.

The enchanting guitar melodies took the audience on a psychedelic journey through the band’s most popular selections, such as August 10, Maria Tambien and White Gloves. However, it wasn’t only the band’s own funky songs that got the crowd dancing. Khruangbin’s surprising takes on classics such as Bam Bam, Let’s Dance, Rhythm Is A Dancer and even Misirlou added extra excitement to the set, making it a memorable performance all round. 

St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sat 2 Apr

words CHLOE BLISSETT photos SARAH JEYNES / JAMIE SIMMONDS