Himalayas Take Over The Garage with Coolio, Chaos, and Catharsis
In London on the evening of June 5th, 2025, something remarkable happened at The Garage that elevated the typical Thursday night live music experience to a profound level. Himalayas, a rock band from Wales, completely transformed the venue into a space filled with explosive energy, powerful vocals, and gripping guitar melodies. As they toured in promotion of their latest album Bad Star, the four-piece group from Cardiff not only displayed growth in their musical maturity but also solidified their position as one of the most dynamic live acts in the UK.
The show kicked off with a slow-starting track called Beneath The Barrel, setting the stage for what was to come. The atmospheric buildup combined with lead singer Joe Williams’ raw and gritty vocal delivery, reminiscent of early Alex Turner, immediately captivated the audience. The transition into fan favorites like Alone and Hung Up showcased the band’s talent in balancing melodic sensibility with fierce intensity, drawing listeners in with their infectious hooks. Throughout the setlist, which included emotional tracks like Leave This Place and Somebody Else, Himalayas maintained a perfect blend of newer material and beloved classics that resonated deeply with the crowd.
The energy peaked with older hits like Thank God I’m Not You, creating an electrifying atmosphere where fans passionately engaged with the band, chanting along and feeling a sense of unity in the venue’s intimate setting. As they seamlessly integrated newer songs like Afterlife and Heavy Weather, it became evident that Himalayas were not simply relying on past successes but actively pushing their musical boundaries to explore new sounds and themes.
By the time the show reached its climax with songs like Sigh On A Hurricane and What If…?, the audience was completely enthralled by the band’s tight instrumentation, meaningful lyrics, and irresistible onstage charisma. In a moment of interaction, Williams urged the London crowd to raise the energy even higher, showcasing the reciprocal connection between the performers and their fans. This rapport extended to an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes individuals who make the show possible, a gesture that highlighted Himalayas’ humility and gratitude.
As the main set concluded with the intense A Brand New God, the demand for an encore was met with a three-song finale that left a lasting impact on everyone present. From the moody intensity of Cave Paintings to the energetic pulse of Flatline, Himalayas showcased their versatility and prowess across different musical styles. The night culminated in a surprising rendition of Coolio’s Gangsta’s Paradise, transformed into a dark and grand reinterpretation that encapsulated the band’s fearless experimentation.
Ultimately, Himalayas’ performance at The Garage wasn’t just a concert; it was a testament to their artistic vision and collective chemistry as a band. The seamless interplay between Williams, Griffiths, Heaps, and Goulbourn demonstrated a level of telepathic communication that only comes from years of shared experience. Their fusion of hard rock, post-punk ethos, and emotional depth solidifies their position as a leading force in the UK music scene, leaving a lasting impression on both dedicated fans and newcomers alike.
Whether attendees were long-time followers or spontaneous attendees like the last-minute ticket-buyer from Upminster, everyone left The Garage that night feeling like they had witnessed something truly special. Himalayas’ performance and the impact of Bad Star suggest that this band is poised for even greater achievements in the future, solidifying their position as a rising star in the music industry.