27 February 2025 – The Palace Foreshore, Melbourne – words by Sarah Gorozidis – pictures by Paris Gorozidis
The Kooks are back on Australia’s shores after just under a year, with a tour for their upcoming album Never/Know which is set for release on the 9th May. And what better place to start their tour than the Palace Foreshore right by the seaside.
Starting off the night strong was Briston Maroney from the US who got the crowd up on their feet and loose with his set which was full of mind itching basslines, angelic and crystal clear vocals and chaotic guitar riffs. Being their first time in Australia, Briston Maroney brought the energy and was trying to make a good impression which he definitely did. Sonicly, considering they were only a 3 piece they packed a punch of a full band, their sound was super full. Briston himself was very charismatic and by the latter half of his set, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand.
Bristol Maroney – Palace Foreshore – photos by Paris Gorozidis
The sun had set and it was time for the main event, The Kooks. The venue went quiet in anticipation as the screen turned black and The Kooks logo suddenly flashed on the screen. The Palace Foreshore rang with applause as the band walked out with the utmost swagger, you would definitely not think they were approaching their 40’s. Starting their set with back to back hits ‘Sofa Song’ and ‘Ooh La’, frontman Luke Pritchard oozed charisma and graced the stage with such ease throughout the whole show.
The Kooks – Palace Foreshore – photos by Paris Gorozidis
There were a few pleasant surprises for the true Kooks fans in the audience as they played ‘Stormy Weather’ and ‘Watching the Ships Roll In’ which haven’t been played since 2012 and 2019 respectively. You could tell that the band were truly grateful to still have an audience and be playing their music. A highlight for me was when the stage was bare and it was just Luke and a piano onstage, he sang one of their ballads, ‘See Me Now’ in tribute to his late father. They sounded exactly like their recordings, Luke’s voice in particular hasn’t aged or worn down one bit. They also gave us a sneak peak into what their new album is going to sound like, playing 2 unreleased songs one being their upcoming single ‘Sunny Baby’.
The Kooks – Palace Foreshore – photos by Paris Gorozidis
The Brighton quartet, famously known for their indie anthems, proved once again why they remain one of the most beloved acts of the 2000s indie boom. The Kooks are definitely a force to be reckoned with and I am very excited to see what their 7th studio album, Never/Know gives their fans.
