North London’s history of producing era-defining artists is one that can lay claim to some of the UK’s brightest talents, from Madness to Amy Winehouse, Adele to Wolf Alice. Now, KAWALA – one of the country’s most promising new bands – are the latest to put themselves forward for inclusion in that lineage.

Centred around the core duo of singer Jim Higson and guitarist/singer Daniel McCarthy, KAWALA aren’t your typical band. Their lush sound is cushioned with the pair’s gorgeous harmonies, driven by Daniel’s unique finger-style acoustic guitar playing, and inflected with sounds from genres far beyond the one they inhabit. In the current landscape of popular music, they stand as exciting outliers, carving their own path.

With their own taste in music developing, they decided to invite some friends to join them in the band in an attempt to also expand their opportunities. With Ben now on a full drumkit, they also recruited bassist Reeve Coulson and guitarist Dan Lee. These additions not only helped them move into new territory gig-wise but also brought fresh sonic inspirations to nestle into the KAWALA sound. They credit Ben’s love of Afrobeat and Highlife as helping them highlight those rhythms in their music, while Reeve Brings an influence, however subtle, from the world of drum and bass, and Dan Lee’s intricate yet tasteful electric guitarwork brought new textures to the sound.