KAWALA

London quintet Kawala started out with acoustic performances before becoming known for their unique fusion of folk and upbeat pop. Originally fronted by Jim Higson (vocals) and Daniel McCarthy (guitar), the band evolved into a more ambitious sound when they were joined by Ben Batten (drums), Dan Lee (guitar) and Reeve Coulson (bass). Their debut album ‘Better With You’ (2022) was a huge success, reaching number 29 in the UK charts, and reflects the band’s creative chemistry as well as the strength of their community.
After overcoming the challenges of the pandemic, which shook up their relationship with concerts and music, Kawala decided to take a step back and reinvent themselves. They spent eight months in the studio in London, rediscovering their sound and moving away from their acoustic roots to explore more electric and pop nuances. Their new, bolder style is embodied on their latest EP, ‘Old Me’, released last year, notably through tracks like ‘American Adrenaline’, a song that is both luminous and critical of society’s deceptive promises.
Despite their initial misgivings, their return to the stage was greeted with sold-out concerts in the UK. Their new music, marked by anthems such as ‘Wasteland’ and ‘Make A Difference’, retains that note of hope that defines them. Kawala continue to evolve while remaining true to their philosophy of self-belief and resilience, convinced that they have produced their best work to date.Kawala’s second album, ‘Collection’, will be released on 31 January, and the band will perform it live on a European tour, with a concert scheduled for 26 February 2025 at La Boule Noire in Paris.