Review: Kowalski at The Grand Social

Bangor’s finest Kowalski returned to Dublin to perform at the opening night of Communion (the UK’s fastest growing club night) at the Grand Social. Their début EP Take Care, Take Flight has received rave reviews, both here and in the US, where “Letters from the Height of Summer (Dear Bird)” recently featured in the MTV remake of Skins. Based on tonight’s performance it’s easy to see why network television is taking notice. Their songs are flush with memorable choruses and sweet and somber summer harmonies.

Although visibly sick singer Louis Price’s voice is impeccable on song’s like “Dear Bird” and the catchy disco synth pop of“Take Care, Take Flight”. Paddy Baird’s top class, snare and hi-hat combo’s propel the band while Tom O’Hara’s catchy bass groves and whig-out stage antics, offer visual and musical stimulus to the crowd.

A moment of disaster almost befell singer Louis Price halfway through the set, as he wobbled on the edge of the stage, almost falling off. Much to the amusement of the rest of the band.

With wobbly keys and disco beats, last song “Get Back” is the highlight of the set. Its chorus of “Get back to the place that you know” is instantly pleasing.  Bigger and better venues surely await in 2011 as momentum, inevitably builds for Kowalski.