As a band that emerged from the vibrant psychedelia of the ’90s Britpop scene, Kula Shaker’s unique blend of classic rock, Eastern mysticism, and pop sensibilities has created a dedicated and loyal following. On a recent stop in Boston at the iconic Brighton Music Hall on September 21st, the air was thick with the excitement of fans, both original and new, ready to experience the band’s particular brand of rock and roll. Stepping onto the stage, Crispian Mills (vocals/guitar), flanked by his long-time bandmates, Alonza George Bevan (bass), Paul Winter-Hart (drums), and Jay Peter Darlington (keys) exuded a quiet confidence, a signal that while the years may have passed, the fire of their performance would still be very much alive.
Without ceremony, the band launched into their set, starting with the rolling groove of “Great Hosannah”. The sound was tight, dynamic, and immediately infectious, setting a high-energy tone that would barely let up for the rest of the night. It was an instant reminder of why Kula Shaker has always been so respected as a live act—they are a cohesive and powerful unit. The initial blast of sound, complete with Mills’ signature guitar work and the deep, resonant Hammond organ, washed over the crowd, and any notion that this would be a simple nostalgic trip was quickly put to rest.
As expected, the setlist was a tour-de-force of their most celebrated anthems like “Hey Dude”. The crowd erupted for the iconic sitar riff of “Tattva,” singing along to every syllable with an almost religious fervor. But it was during their cover of Joe South’s “Hush” and “Govinda” later in the set that the concert reached a new level of communal energy. Hearing hundreds of voices chanting the Sanskrit chorus in unison created a genuinely spiritual and surreal moment, a rare connection between band and audience that transcends the typical concert experience. It’s a powerful testament to the band’s unique musical identity that a song rooted in ancient traditions has become one of their most beloved live staples.
While the classics fueled the nostalgia, the band’s new material from their latest album, Natural Magick, proved they are far from just a heritage act. “Idon’twannapaymytaxes” and a cover of Hawkwind’s “Hurry On Sundown” seamlessly integrated into the set, their crunchy guitar riffs and psychedelic funk grooves standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the fan favorites. It was clear that these songs weren’t just filler; they were vibrant, well-crafted additions to the Kula Shaker canon, showing a band that is still evolving and producing relevant, compelling music.
At the heart of it all was the raw talent of the musicians. Crispian Mills, with his charismatic swagger and boundless energy, was an enthralling frontman, his guitar work both virtuosic and perfectly suited to each song’s texture. His playful banter and sincere appreciation for the crowd made for an engaging and personal performance. Meanwhile, the rhythmic foundation provided by Bevan and Winterhart was impeccable, and the swirling, otherworldly organ sounds from Darlington provided the essential psychedelic backbone to every track, proving just how integral each member is to the band’s sound.
Beyond the music, the show was a feast for the senses. A mesmerizing psychedelic light show, featuring liquid light projections and vibrant color washes, transformed the stage into a living canvas. The visuals danced across the band members and the venue walls, creating an immersive, kaleidoscopic atmosphere that perfectly complemented the trippy, Eastern-influenced sound. It’s this commitment to creating a full sensory experience, a “vibe” that is equal parts vintage festival and modern rock show, that makes a Kula Shaker concert feel so special.
In the end, the concert was a powerful declaration that Kula Shaker is still a force to be reckoned with. They’ve matured without losing any of the youthful exuberance that made them so captivating in the first place. The show struck the perfect balance between honoring their classic work and showcasing the strength of their new material, leaving the crowd with a feeling of pure satisfaction. For both long-time devotees and those just discovering their unique sound, Kula Shaker’s current tour is an unmissable live experience.
