Photo Credit: Evie Smith
Words: Emilie Broad

Following the release of their second EP ‘Kneeslappas‘,The Kairos have set out on their 2026 tour. Having seen them as an opener and being absolutely blown away, I was excited to see them headline their own show.

Exchange has hosted many big names such as The 1975, HAIM and many more. It has two rooms, the main room and the basement. The Kairos played in the main room. Located just a short walk from the center of Bristol, this independent has lots of charm and plenty to do pre-gig such as browsing in the record store above the venue specialising in the punk-rock genre.

The First opener for the night was the three piece from Grimsby Revivalry. They have one EP released, ‘Modern Nostalgia‘, and their latest release is their single ‘Worth It‘. Revivalry had a good stage presence with an organic performance that didn’t feel forced. The band even got in the pit to perform a song creating an intimate relationship with the crowd. Overall they were a really fun watch.

Second opener for the night was Florentenes who have been making waves of their own. The Bolton-based four piece have supported big names in the indie scene, their latest release ‘Undiscovered Colors‘ should be part of any indie listeners playlist. It has a really nice guitar and is even better live. This band really gives off the vibe of running around in summer with your friends just having fun. The song of the set was ‘Madeline‘, I really enjoyed listening to this.

Known for their punchy guitars and charged performances, The Kairos are perfect for indie-rock fans. The band have a big year ahead of them, with the release of their second EP and their just announced slot on the mainstage at Neighbourhood Weekender, it’s clear that they have success in their future. Having seen them before, I was so excited for this performance. With the whole room chanting ‘No Kairos, No Party’,  the atmosphere was alive before the band even came on.

Kicking the set off with Suspend, the lads had the whole room moving. The entire crowd was in tune with the band and at full watts, jumping and singing along with the band. It was my first time hearing ‘Stranger’ live and they did not disappoint me. Located in the middle of the set, it kept the energy alive and the crowd begging for more. Every song they played was a hit including an unreleased song ‘I’ve Never Met a Mess Like You’, something I’ve had said to me many times. I’m so excited for this one to come out just so I can listen to it whenever I want to, guys look out for this tune, it’s mega. Be sure to catch them on the main stage at Neighbourhood Weekender as you will not be disappointed.