AYAS Collective @ Next Door Records, Shepherd’s Bush

23rd August 2024

West London really is the black sheep of the London Music scene, with the perception generally being that West has little to offer compared to the vibrant scenes in East or South. It was therefore good to see a DIY event put together by so many musicians from the local area. As the lower level of Next Door Records (once an independent restaurant, now a record shop come gig venue) begin to fill with friends and fans, the mood is very much set for the evening.

New collective AYAS (‘Accept You’re A Stranger’) put on a fantastic night of alternative indie and soul. First up are special guests Half Star, with their unique brand of acoustic dreampop, all jangling chorus guitar and ethereal vocals. They make a point to praise the house white as they sip between songs (I grab a glass later on, it’s real good). It’s great to hear some really excellent indie that isn’t hiding behind a pretence of being experimental or deep, just great, self-contained songs. The acoustic guitar is fed through lush chorus, the parts carefully constructed with shades of the Cure or Stone Roses.

They are followed by a hauntingly beautiful performance from Grant Nelson, an acoustic set with just the singer and his guitar. Nelson’s voice is incredible, sliding up and down octaves with ease, his melodies incorporating microtonal shifts reminiscent of Middle Eastern music. His unique style of folk is captivating, and is a joy to watch.

Next on the bill are Opium Blue