Concert review: A Thousand Horses at Islington Assembly Hall, London, August 1, 2025
Southern rock and country music have long shared a close kinship, with artists continually blurring the lines between the two genres. In a scene teeming with talent and new acts vying for attention, it can be challenging to unearth hidden gems amidst the sea of musicians hoping to emulate the success of established names like the Cadillac Three, Blackberry Smoke, and Brothers Osborne.
A Thousand Horses, a band hailing from Nashville, caught the attention of many music enthusiasts, including yours truly, following a friend’s enthusiastic recommendation. After a period of relative inactivity and some lineup changes, the band made a triumphant return with a show at the Islington Assembly Hall in London, perfectly timed to inject some energy into the live music scene.
Kicking off the night was These Wicked Rivers, a band that had recently captivated audiences at the Maid of Stone festival. Their distinctive style, complete with beards, coats, and a stage adorned with unique decor, set the stage for a riveting opening act. Their southern-influenced sounds, tinged with heavier elements, seamlessly paved the way for the headlining act.
A Thousand Horses took the stage, exuding a quintessentially rock ‘n’ roll vibe with their long hair and black attire. Led by singer Michael Hobby, the band’s performance showcased a fusion of country twang and gritty rock elements. Tracks like ‘First Time’ and ‘The Outside’ demonstrated their versatility, with slide guitar work and a Black Crowes-inspired sound that resonated with the audience.
Despite a slow start, the band hit their stride with singalong anthems like ‘A Song To Remember’ and ‘Trailer Trashed,’ injecting the crowd with newfound enthusiasm. Tracks like ‘Heaven Is Close’ and ‘Travelin Man’ evoked vivid Americana imagery, while ‘Broken Heartland’ showcased Michael’s prowess as a storyteller and songwriter.
The setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from rootsy acoustic tracks to raucous blues rockers like ‘Summer’ and ‘Smoke.’ ‘Highway Sound’ and ‘Room Full Of Strangers’ served as fitting encores, leaving the audience craving more of the band’s infectious sound.
Overall, A Thousand Horses delivered a powerhouse performance that left a lasting impression. With their blend of country charm and rock grit, the band has all the ingredients to become a staple on both airwaves and festival stages. As they continue to build momentum, it’s clear that A Thousand Horses are poised for greater acclaim and recognition in the music industry.
In conclusion, discovering A Thousand Horses live was a revelation, and I eagerly anticipate delving deeper into their discography to uncover more hidden gems. As the band charts a course for greater success, it’s safe to say that they have firmly solidified their status as rising stars in the realm of southern rock and country music.