Up-and-coming band Clifford’s lit up the legendary King Tut’s stage on Sunday 9th November, delivering a performance that left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to be in the room. As the lights dimmed and the band emerged, the packed crowd roared with anticipation, welcoming the wonderful Iona Lynch and her four-piece ensemble with a wave of excitement that set the mood for the entire night.
They opened their set with “Marsh,” a track that perfectly captures their fresh, indie-driven sound. Its cool, authentic vibe instantly pulled the audience in. Iona’s vocals — effortlessly expressive and full of character — carried through the venue with a contagious energy that rippled from the front row to the back of the room. It was immediately clear why this band is generating such a buzz: they don’t just perform; they connect.
From start to finish, the band delivered a show bursting with feel-good momentum. Their musical chemistry was obvious — tight rhythms, thoughtful arrangements, and a performance style that was both confident and refreshingly unpretentious. Iona’s stage presence in particular shone throughout: charismatic without trying, and deeply in tune with both her bandmates and the crowd.
Clifford’s kept the atmosphere electric with a lineup of standout tracks including “If the Shoe Fits,” “Shattered Glass,” and “Wall of Ghosts.” Each song highlighted a different facet of their sound, from gritty indie edge to shimmering melodic moments. Their musicianship never faltered, and the audience remained fully engaged, responding to every dynamic shift and emotional nuance.
One of the highlights of the night was “My Favourite Monster,” released in 2025. The track showcases the band at their most distinctive — rich tones, layered instrumentation, and a sense of musical confidence far beyond their years. The song’s structure and sonic depth perfectly encapsulate Clifford’s authenticity, offering a glimpse of just how much potential this band holds for the future.
By the time the final notes rang out across King Tut’s, it was clear that Clifford’s are a band destined for bigger stages. Their music, presence, and undeniable energy set them apart, and their ability to create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and electrifying is something truly special.
Clifford’s are a band I would highly recommend. Whether you’re a dedicated gig-goer or just discovering new talent, they’re a group whose rise will be exciting to watch. Catch a Clifford’s show while you can — because if this performance was anything to go by, they’re on track to reach remarkable heights, and you won’t want to miss being part of their journey.
Review & Photographs by Ashleigh Maitland
