“Can you help me? You know I can’t reach.“
It is impossible not to be swept up by the vibrant, genial energy of Pool Kids, whose happy-go-lucky blend of emo, indie, and technical rock styles has made them one of the most refreshing acts in the scene. After a brief introduction to the UK at The Great Escape in 2023, the band has finally returned for a proper headline run to celebrate their 2025 album, Easier Said Than Done.
The London stop was bolstered by an incredibly pretty set from singer-songwriter Sydney Sprague, accompanied the band across their UK dates. Her delicate, hook-filled mini-albums translate beautifully to the live stage, offering a melodic contrast to an otherwise high-energy bill. Opening the night were local London favourites Fresh, one of many bright sparks on the UK’s burgeoning indie punk network.
This tour serves as a perfect victory lap before Pool Kids head back across the Atlantic this June for Outbreak Fest, as part of its “emo Friday” line up. Since Outbreak is a much-fabled hardcore festival, will the band take the opportunity to moonlight as their hardcore side project, POOL? Given the warm response to their live headline shows such at this London date, it will be a great set to open up the festival no matter what.
Words by Dobbin T, Photography by Autumn Sky. Contact Autumn prior to any image use.
Fresh
Sydney Sprague
Pool Kids
