Title: "Emerging on the Music Horizon: Introducing Kawala"
Kawala is an indie pop and folk band centered in London and known for their unique acoustic folk harmonies and upbeat atmosphere. Since their inception in 2014, this dynamic band has been captivating audiences with their musical charm, not just in their homeland but also beyond UK borders.
Kawala was initially a duo formed by North Londoners Jim Higson (vocals) and Daniel McCarthy (lead vocal, guitar), who met at University in Leeds. The duo started their journey by posting covers of popular songs, and creating their distinct sound out of a bedroom studio. Following several appearances and live performances, the duo morphed into a full-fledged five-piece band, with Benjamin Batten (drums), Reeve Coulson (bass), and Dan Lee (electric guitar) joining the ranks.
Staying true to their roots, Kawala’s music nurtures a sound deeply entrenched in acoustic guitar rhythms but is equally inspired by African guitar music, creating a harmonic fusion that is both authentic and refreshing. Their unique sound is a spirited indie-pop fusion, with intricate harmonies, vibrant acoustics, warm vocals, and a rhythmic pulse that radiates an upbeat and lively vibe.
Their debut EP itself - "D.I.L.Y.D" - made waves in the music industry, with singles such as "Do It Like You Do" and "Small Death" becoming instantly popular among their growing fan base. This was followed by their second EP "Play It Right", further solidifying their unique place in the indie-pop genre.
Kawala's talent was recognized by the acclaimed Mahogany Sessions where they gave a stunning rendition of their breakout single "Do It Like You Do". Touring extensively throughout the UK and playing at festivals like Reading and Leeds, the band attained recognition for their foot-stomping, high-energy performances that inevitably immerse audiences into their euphonious world.
However, it's not just live performances where Kawala shines. They have also achieved admirable streaming success, with millions of streams on Spotify, making them one of the bands to watch in the contemporary music scene.
Despite the pandemic, Kawala continued to produce new music, merely transforming challenges into opportunities. In May 2021, they released their long-awaited EP “Paradise”. This collection of tracks reflects on their musical journey so far, demonstrating growth and showcasing their impressive vocal harmonies, as well as their ability to craft deeply emotional and relatable lyrics.
In essence, Kawala is a young, dynamic music band with a sound that feels like a breath of fresh air. They have swiftly carved a niche for themselves in the Indie-pop/rock scene. Their vibrant and emotionally charged performances, coupled with their knack for creating melodious tunes with catchy lyrics, undoubtedly make them a band to keep an eye on.
Whether you're a die-hard indie-pop fan or someone looking for something fresh and unconventional in the music scene, Kawala firmly deserves a place on your playlist. Their journey so far promises an exciting future ahead, and their continuously evolving sound makes them one to watch in the coming years.