LIVE REVIEW: The K's @ Gorilla, Manchester

Ahead of the BRIT Awards coming to Manchester for the first time in its history, The K’s took to the Gorilla Stage on Friday night in support of War Child as part of the highly-anticipated Brits week lineup. The Merseyside quartet showcased their ever-growing prowess on the concert stage to a sold-out crowd, creating the perfect sense of communal celebration not only for their music, but for an incredible cause. 

Photo Credit: Paul Lang / @paullangphotographer

On what would become a night to remember, the band performed in astounding unison with their audience, who seemed to know every song word for word. The undeniable sense of connection between the band and their fans overwhelmed the venue, and was a true testament to the power live music can have when tied to a cause as impactful as War Child. 

Bolton band Florentenes opened in exciting style, giving the crowd a flavour of their unique, eclectic sound. Then, after fans were given more information about the incredible charity and how to donate, the headliners took to the stage. Opening with ‘Before I Hit The Floor’, and fan-favourite ‘Chancer’, the atmosphere of the room completely erupted, energising the crowd as they sang in unison. Frontman Jamie Boyle expressed how this was their first gig back after the longest break they have ever had off stage, three months. However, this point would have gone unnoticed as they continued to perform each track on the setlist with admirable expertise.

Photo Credit: Paul Lang / @paullangphotographer

The intimacy of the gig made ‘Hoping Maybe’ a standout moment of the night. The acoustic track created a truly beautiful moment in the set, with its stripped back nature allowing the room to think and reflect on what the night was for. After picking the energy back up, the night came to a close with ‘Sarajevo’. It is safe to say that the band climaxed at the perfect point with their final song, demonstrating their Indie flare with finessed intensity. 

2026 is sure to be another exciting year for the Earlestown boys as they continue to master their presence in the Indie music scene both on and off stage. Overall, The K’s undoubtedly performed an incredible show for an incredible cause.