Live Recap: Kit Sebastian at The Jam Jar, Bristol

Photo credit: Rhys Dolman
Words: Sam Walker-Smart

 

One of the great aspects of Bristol is its diverse array of unique venues for catching bands across all genres. Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, The Jam Jar prides itself on hosting an eclectic mix of global acts within its vibrant interiors. If you’re looking to dance to some tunes that veer off the mainstream path, this old warehouse is the place to be. Tonight’s entertainment features the cinematically chic duo Kit Sebastian, touring in support of their recently released album, New Internationale

Before Kit Sebastian took the stage, Sons of Sevilla set the mood with their hazy, atmospheric vibes. This year marked the release of their debut album, Lullabies For A Wildcat, a nearly hour-long collection of hypnotic tunes that translated beautifully to the live setting. Led by brothers Henry and Reuben Smith, the group captures the dizzy energy of a summer afternoon with a rhythm section reminiscent of the most blissed-out moments from Screamadelica, complemented by lush guitar melodies. Their dreamy half-hour set flew by, and if you’re looking for an album to help you zone out, we highly recommend it.

As a brief intermission, the growing crowd was treated to a short art-house film featuring Kit Sebastian members Merve and Kit as they indulged in their retro dreams. The film showcases them lounging in parks, going riverboating, narrating mostly in French, and engaging in philosophical discussions, all captured with a Super 8 aesthetic. It provides a fun introduction to the group’s stylized world. 

At 9 p.m., the band took to the stage, the dynamic duo supported by musicians on drums, bass, and keys. While their image may exude an aloof aura, they bring a lively groove to their performance. Standing tall and stoically, Kit delivers effects-laden guitar licks that provide a funky foundation for the band. In contrast, the petite Merve enthusiastically engages with the crowd, swaying to the nostalgic sounds she and Kit have been crafting over the past seven years. The songs are as intoxicating live as they are on record, and crowd participation only enhances the experience.

Predictably, tracks from New Internationale get the most love, with “Bul Bul Bul,” “Faust,” and “Göç / Me” going down particularly well. As the set progresses, the energy ramps up, with both the band and crowd fighting the Sunday sluggishness to seize the final hours of the weekend. Merve takes a moment to explain the meanings behind some songs, acknowledging that there likely aren’t many Turkish speakers in the audience—but that’s not really necessary. The crowd’s reaction underscores the truth that great music transcends language.

After an hour, we reach the finale. Merve waves a huge Kit Sebastian flag as the band unleashes one final jam before quickly returning for a one-song encore. The cramped room reaches a palpable level of sweat—always a sign of success at The Jam Jar. Despite being a niche act performing on a damp Sunday night in a weird part of town, Kit Sebastian overcame the odds. The venue’s regulars are intrepid, with even the doorman praising the funky rhythms emanating from upstairs.

There are many esoteric psych-flavored groups out there, but few evoke the desire to sip a dirty martini while playing French New Wave. Kit Sebastian exists in their own little world, and it was a pleasure to spend an hour immersed in it. 

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