August and After comprises Cambridge alumni Ned Mortimer and Vedantha Kumar on guitar and vocals, as well as Tom Fromant on bass and Jordan Bergmans on viola. Their elaborate guitar playing and layering of instrumental harmonies makes for an unusual and arresting sound. The emotional vocals and personal lyrics made for a truly unmissable night.

Ellen Reay, a harpist and singer, started the show with her skilled use of a pedal creating a slick and rich sound. The different layers provided an enchantingly enmeshed melody that complemented her soulful voice. Her Elliot Smith cover was emotional and understated.

August and After followed, treating the audience to intimate insights and their signature combination of instrumental prowess and emotionally powerful lyrics. The first song, a cover of Counting Crows’ ‘Round Here’ functioned well in introducing the band’s style as well as the genesis of the band’s name. Despite its unusual lack of percussion, the band's rendition of the song was powerful.

Kumar’s song written about a childhood conversation with his father, which Mortimer described as the first moment Kumar thought about mortality, was suitably emotional and enthralling. After beginning softly, the tempo and volume built as the other musicians joined the throng creating an upbeat and funky sound, complemented by Fromant’s bass.

The band’s set was defined by the subtle yet technically complex guitar playing, particularly ‘The Orchard’ which was reminiscent of José Gonzalez. Bergmans should be congratulated for her viola playing which complemented and fleshed out the liltingly beautiful instrumental sound. Indeed the viola and harp added a romantic, tragic tone to the song ‘Waltz for Marie’. 

Particular moments of power and presence occured when the whole band played together. The bass provided an often soulful beat to the music; the vocals, particularly the harmonies, are impressively rendered by Kumar and Mortimer. The former also let loose with their guitar playing, creating climactic and rousing moments during the set. Mortimer often adds a seemingly Flamenco influence to his playing, in addition to finger tapping.

The group is planning on organising future secret, intimate gigs during which they will showcase their own music, as well as collaborating with different supporting acts.  They also have upcoming gigs scheduled at Ronnie Scott’s as part of their monthly residency at the hallowed venue. Take advantage of the group’s intimate gigs as their authentic lyrics and captivating instrumental sound make for an engaging and evocative musical experience.