DEAF HAVANA 8/10/22

LIVE REVIEW FROM THE TRAMSHED IN CARDIFF

Written by Bea Kayleigh

Norfolk based alternative duo Deaf Havana began their UK tour in Tramshed, Cardiff’s well

loved venue. Bringing to the stage with them London based alternative project Jaws The

Shark and pop musician Khazali. After a challenging few years the band were ready to call it

quits but through sheer luck brothers James and Matthew Veck-Gilodi found themselves

writing music together again. The pandemic saw the band drop down to a two piece,

although they continue to thank and appreciate past members Tom and Lee. After releasing

brand new album ‘The Past Is a Foreign Land’ on July 15th the duo came prepared with a

whole new catalogue of tracks for fans. With a yellow weather warning the walk to the

Tramshed was less than favourable but I knew it was going to be worth it to finally see Deaf

Havana after years of being a fan. The night began with Olly Bailey’s solo project Jaws The

Shark, although only releasing music since 2020 he has plenty of tracks available to stream

including ‘That Feeling’ and ‘Demon Dream’ he is definitely worth the listen! The energy was

brought with the next act Khazali, with powerful vocals and a great stage presence- what

wasn’t there to enjoy? Khazali released his newest single ‘High Hopes’ on July 27th, this can

be found on any streaming platform of choice. Then it was time for the main act, taking to the

stage to perform a set full to the brim with album deep dives and fan favourites galore.

Beginning their set with brand new ‘Pocari Sweat’ which fans already memorised the lyrics

to, before moving on to ‘19 dreams’ and ‘Trigger’ the atmosphere was at an all time high, the

sheer shared love for the band was so apparent. The set was constantly engaging, switching

between full band and acoustic tracks. A few moments pass and I get to hear a personal

favourite of mine ‘Hell’, I find that James’ vocals really get to shine whilst also creating a

groove in the room. ‘Happiness’ received an incredible reaction from fans, a truly beautiful

track that clearly resonated with many of the audience members. Before the encore,

‘Mildred’ and ‘Sinner’ were fulfilled but leaving fans still wanting more they returned to the

stage for five more tracks. Their set came to an end with the final (not alternative version)

piece from the new album ‘Remember Me’ and it is safe to say this was a very memorable

show. Deaf Havana wrap up their tour on November 15th in Newcastle and have currently

not announced anything else.