Live Review: Molotov Jukebox

I can only describe seeing Molotov Jukebox in London as summer personified. Thanks to the help of Islington Metal Works both my friend and I felt like we had taken a trip abroad for the evening. With their BBQs raring to go, the makeshift bar set inside a vintage campervan and Molotov Jukebox taking the stage to perform what can only be described as definitive ‘summer’ music – my friend and I were transported into a holiday world of our own.

The night started with a man sitting on a box. Well, no not really – but that’s what it looked like when we walked into the front room. More Like Trees, an acoustic band who I’ve never heard of before, but will definitely listen to again, opened the evening. The band chose a distinctive choice of instruments – a cajón, a double bass and violinist. They intertwine their instruments with the help of the lead singer to produce a very unique sound which I can highly recommend.

Following More Like Trees, the audience were treated with the real delight of the evening – Molotov Jukebox. With the launch of their EP, ‘Bang’ on the 20th of May, The Islington Metal Works was a perfect venue to celebrate the launch.

Molotov Jukebox is fronted by Natalia Tena, who might I add is just plain cool. With flowers in her hair and an accordion in her hands – she’s definitely one of those girls that girls want to be and guys want to be with. Unfortunately she is taken – by her band mate Sam, the violinist which is how this ingenious lovechild began. As well as Sam and Natalia, the band is made up of four other talented musicians producing what can only be described as a Central American hurricane of ska, jazz, funk and pop. A definite melting pot of sounds, which is what makes Molotov Jukebox so unique. Their set felt short, but that was only because their music was so appealing. I didn’t see one person sitting the entire time. Their music is incredibly infectious and amazingly vibrant.

If the crowd were anything to go by, everyone in the room felt the same way my friend and I did, happy. Happy to be greeted by summer in the best possible way – with a burger, a beer and a very beautiful band.

By Meredith Berman