Labyrinth on the Thames could hardly have chosen a more impressive location. With the sun setting over the river behind the stage and the grand buildings of the Old Royal Naval College framing the venue, it is easily one of the most beautiful places to see live music in London.
The Kooks were celebrating 20 years since the release of their debut album, "Inside In / Inside Out", and the evening felt like a warm, uncomplicated celebration of the band’s career. Luke Pritchard appeared relaxed and down to earth, bringing an easy, unforced energy to the performance.
The setlist offered a good balance of old favourites, newer material and a few slower moments. Unsurprisingly, "She Moves In Her Own Way" and the finale, "Naive", were the biggest highlights, prompting huge singalongs from the friendly crowd.
There were also some more reflective moments. Introducing "See Me Now" at the piano, Pritchard spoke about losing his father at the age of three and the box of records and Gibson Les Paul he left behind.
Later, the stripped-back "Seaside" offered another quieter highlight, with Pritchard recalling the band’s early days rehearsing in an old bread factory in Brighton. These personal stories gave the anniversary show an added sense of history and nostalgia.
Fireworks over the Thames provided the perfect ending and made the celebration feel suitably special. The band are also working on new music, although they have not yet announced when it will be released, showing that the evening was not simply a look back.
The supporting line-up was strong, with Circa Waves proving an obvious crowd-pleaser. Tom A. Smith was the standout discovery of the evening, delivering an energetic performance that marked him out as an artist to watch.
The festival itself was well organised, and VIP access to the Painted Hall added something genuinely special to the experience. It provided a beautiful place to explore and relax away from the main crowd. Drinks were expensive, although that is increasingly expected at major London events.
There is still room for Labyrinth on the Thames to develop its wider festival experience. The event relies heavily on the grandeur of the venue, and a few additional creative touches, such as a smaller DJ stage, roaming performers or interactive activities, could make the space feel even more immersive.
Overall, this was a brilliant summer evening in a spectacular location. Labyrinth on the Thames offers the chance to see major artists in a venue unlike almost anywhere else in the capital, and its varied programme means each event is likely to attract a completely different crowd.
For anyone looking for a memorable evening of live music by the river, it is easy to recommend.
Photo credit: Ross Davidson
