“Will I always be a devil on your shoulder?“
Canadian grunge-gaze powerhouse Softcult recently brought their latest EP, Heaven, to the UK, delivering a masterclass performance that cemented their status as one of the most promising acts in the scene.
Words by Jack Walker from the Manchester show, photography © Konstancja Szwed (photosbykon) from London – contact before any usage.
Bleach Lab
Before Softcult took the stage, the crowd was treated to the powerful allure of their tour support, Bleach Lab. For many, this band may have been an unfamiliar name – until now. After their live performance, it’s clear they’re poised for major recognition.
Bleach Lab’s sound is an intoxicating fusion of dark, brooding shoegaze and vibrant, shimmering indie rock. It’s a familiar formula, yet they bring a fresh intensity that feels entirely their own. Vocalist Jenna Kyle commanded the stage with a quiet but compelling presence, her stunning voice carrying emotional weight without need for theatrics, while the band behind her was impressively tight. With shades of The Ninth Wave, they created a magnetic atmosphere that held the crowd captive.
Particular credit goes to guitarist Frank Wates, whose skill took the set to new heights. Bleach Lab’s songs are already rich with character, but live, Wates’ performance brought even greater depth. His ability to add texture without overwhelming the band demonstrates a technical prowess that deserves recognition.
Bleach Lab’s trajectory seems set for greatness. It’s easy to see why they were chosen to support Softcult: they energised the room, setting the stage perfectly for the night’s headliner.
Softcult
Then, the main act took the stage. Canadian twins Mercedes and Phoenix Arn-Horn, with bandmates Brent McSwiggan and Phil Hirst, have already earned a reputation for powerful performances, and this show only reinforced their status. Their artistry reached new heights, delivering a set that felt nearly unattainable a year ago.
Having first seen Softcult supporting emo-punk icons Movements last year, I was captivated by their charisma. But now, on this headline tour, they’ve levelled up in every way. Their setlist was a near-perfect mix, drawing from across their discography with highlights from both Zodiac EPs, Heaven, and fan favourites that kept the audience engaged from start to finish.
Opening with “Haunt You Still” and seamlessly transitioning into “Gloomy Girl,” Softcult had the audience captivated from the first chord. Many tracks received extended atmospheric outros with roaring guitars and punchy drums – a technique they’ve honed to perfection since last year.
Upbeat anthems like “Take It Off” and “Spit It Out” had the crowd roaring, fully immersed in the high-energy vibe. The band’s enthusiasm was palpable, making these faster moments feel even more exhilarating. The dynamic shifts between intense and atmospheric tracks gave the set an emotional depth that amplified every note.
Between songs, Mercedes addressed social and political issues – a defining element of Softcult’s mission. Her words carried a powerful weight, resonating deeply with the audience. Perhaps the most impactful moment came when she introduced “BWBB” (Boys Will Be Boys), inspired by the tragic story of Sarah Everard. A profound silence filled the room, with a shared sense of empathy and unity among attendees – a testament to the band’s willingness to confront challenging topics.
Softcult’s directness brings an honesty to their music that few artists achieve, creating an experience that’s as emotionally impactful as it is sonically thrilling.
The closing run of tracks showcased Softcult at their absolute best, leading to the iconic “Uzumaki,” the song that launched them into the spotlight. This finale felt like a celebration, delivering everything fans could hope for and solidifying the band’s place in the alt-music landscape. The haunting spoken word line “You should have killed me when you had the chance” left the audience with chills—a lingering reminder of Softcult’s intensity.
In the end, Softcult didn’t just perform; they created an experience, reaffirming their place as a band on the rise, and opening my eyes to how powerful a less-is-more approach can truly be.
Check out our reviews of Softcult‘s Heaven and See You In The Dark.