Once again, it’s been a while since we heard much from Stone Jets. They’ve been calling London home for the last three years and gradually building up a name for themselves in the musical corners of the city. And it seems they’re doing well – if the whoops of appreciation in their new live EP, Live in West Hampstead, are anything to go by.
Delivering the Stone Jets’ sound, unhindered and unmasked, the EP is a beautifully raw and real exhibition of just what the duo – recently turned four-piece – do. Both performed and recorded beneath the lofty ceilings of St. James’ West Hampstead, a gorgeously atmospheric quality ripples through throughout.
The extended offering sees tracks from across their repertoire return to life. “Take a Look at Me” sets the tone with Given Nkanyane’s pitching, soulful vocals belt out against a singular guitar line and light percussion. It’s the sort of sound which carries over this one-take of the EP. Given raises the roof time and time again, while varying sonic qualities direct the performance this way and that.
“Wise Words” favours a snappy percussive vein, “Illusion” starts off stripped-back and chiming, reeling the energy right back in – while “I Can’t Live Without You” leans on Maskandi-esque rhythm and rhyme. Roars of appreciation issue through the background, effortless banter and clinking bottles punctuate the pauses, and Stone Jets once again reinforce their sonic prowess as a force to be reckoned with – even from afar.
Feature pic by Izzy Offerman
