Brum Shots

Around 10 years ago, Kids In Glass Houses called it quits. This was pretty bloody devastating to many at the time (myself included) who woefully cried along to ‘Matters At All’ in the finale what was supposedly their final ever Birmingham gig a decade ago.

But things have changed since then. Their reunion shows at Slam Dunk Festival 2023 drew in some of the biggest crowds of weekend, and now with a new album released, they have successfully sold out a Birmingham show once again. This time we’re at The Crossing; Digbeth’s finest venue that is also inside a collage.

First up is Himalayas; a Cardiff based rock band. They’re fun and upbeat, exactly what is needed at a nostalgic Saturday night gig. Finishing with a quick cover of ‘Gangsta’s Paradise’ may seem unconventional and strange, but in many ways seems to fit in perfectly with recapturing of the youth that many fans are hear for.

Next up are Mouth Culture, a slightly heavier Leicester-based group. The room is almost full now so the atmosphere is on their side. The introduction of some songs are met with literal screams (of joy) from the crowd. ‘It’s Saturday night. I thought you lot were ready to fucking dance.’ Vocalist Jack Voss asks the lightly bopping crowd as their set draws to a close. Their final track seems to be the one to get the crowd moving most, but the mere mention of KIGH recieves cheers unlike those heard yet tonight.

And then suddenly it’s time. The sold out venue is full to the brim and the lights do down. Blasting onto stage to the opening track of their latest album, Kids In Glass Houses are here. The first couple pf new tracks go down well, but it’s not until the opening guitar riff of ‘Give Me What I Want’ that the buzz of excitement truly peaks. Vocalist Aled Phillips barely has to sing at all as the lyrics are loudly shouted back at them.

The set is a perfect mix of old and new, providing highlights for long term fans and those who have more recently joined the fanbase. Some of the classics need just the opening note to be played for it to be recognised, but every track leads to an epic singalong.

‘We play this song in every show, but when it’s actually thay day it just hits different.’ Phillips introduces the ‘Smart Casual’ hit without even naming it, but even before the majority know that ‘Saturday’ and ‘Matters At All’ are the go to finishing tracks. And as the chorus of ‘Matters At All’ ring out throughout the venue, it’s clear that this is a comeback story with a happy ending.