As Caribou descended on the capital on the day restrictions were lifted and live music returned to venues across Wales, it seemed apt that Cardiff’s Tramshed was transformed into a big electro-pop club night. For anyone looking for a low-key introduction back into the live music scene, this was definitely not one to miss, the Canadian ensemble’s signature electronic sound and lights combining to offer an illuminating, breathtaking show.
Opening the show was Sofia Kourtesis, whose brave, stylish and electrifying house music set prepared the crowd for the main act in style. As well as supporting the group for all of their upcoming UK and European tour dates, the Peruvian artist has recently unveiled dates for her own standalone shows in the UK, highlighting her talented work.
Caribou, led by founder member Dan Snaith, instantly enlivened the crowd, with Odessa and Never Come Back proving to be hits early on. The fast-paced nature of the set didn’t allow for much respite, though Can’t Do Without You did provide a chance for everyone to slow down before the beats picked up once more and other members of the group showcased their talents with an instrumental inclusion.
A special mention should also go out to the lighting and effects team, who – alongside the trademark giant screen behind the stage – offered fantastic illumination effects and a truly visceral element to the performance. The light show provided the perfect accompaniment, assisting in the storytelling and complementing each track with strobe and laser elements – sometimes to the point of being almost intimidating, yet the way they enhanced the sounds would make it quite a suitable standalone show.
It was clear, from the reaction of the crowd, that Caribou fans who had waited so long for this Cardiff performance were not disappointed. An energised, electrifying and polished performance from an extremely talented group.
Tramshed, Cardiff, Fri 28 Jan
words RHIANON HOLLEY photos DAVID GRIFFITHS
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