Live Review: The Kooks @ The Anthem — 6/4/25

There’s something about hearing “Sofa Song” live, surrounded by a thousand people singing every word, that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule lined with Converse sneakers and teenage heartbreak. But The Kooks’ June 4 return to The Anthem wasn’t just a nostalgia trip — it was a powerful reminder that these Britpop charmers are very much still in their prime.

Opening the night were lovelytheband, who warmed up the crowd with an energetic set heavy on guitar and relatable angst. Ending their set with the powerful hit “Broken” got hands in the air early, setting a high bar for the headliners. But as the house lights dimmed again and The Kooks took the stage, it became instantly clear this was going to be something special.

Frontman Luke Pritchard strolled out on stage dress in a black sleeveless t-shirt, tight black jeans and a permanent grin.  From the moment the band launched into “Sofa Song,” the crowd was his. That unmistakable jangly guitar tone — tight, bright, and unapologetically British — rang out through the venue like an old friend. And the energy didn’t let up for 90 minutes.

The Kooks are comprised of founding members Luke Pritchard (lead vocals and guitar) and Hugh Harris (lead guitar, backing vocals, and keys), whose longstanding creative partnership remains the band’s heartbeat. They’re joined on tour by Jonathan Harvey on bass and backing vocals, and Alexis Nunez on drums and percussion — both of whom brought an energetic, precise rhythm section to the stage that kept things tight from start to finish.

Stream The Kooks latest album, Never/Known, released under their own label, Lonely Cat, in 2025:

The Kooks have always had a knack for crafting singalongs, and Wednesday night’s set was full of them. “Ooh La” had the audience swaying, while “She Moves in Her Own Way” sent a wave of voices through the crowd so loud, Pritchard could barely be heard over them (not that he minded). “Stormy Weather” and “Sunny Baby,” two standouts from their latest record Never Know, showcased the band’s evolution — more layered, a little wiser, but still undeniably fun.

Throughout the set, the chemistry between Pritchard and Hugh Harris was magnetic. The two founders played like old mates who’ve weathered storms but found their groove again. Harris’ guitar work was textured and expressive, often veering into playful territory. On “Bad Habit,” he flirted with psychedelic licks, while “See Me Now” gave him room to add raw emotional depth.

It was in the quiet moments — like the acoustic “Seaside” or the tender “See Me Now” — where Pritchard’s songwriting truly shined. His voice, a bit more gravelly with time but still boyish when he leans into it, brought a depth to these tunes that added to the evening’s emotional arc.

Yet the band never stayed in one mood for too long. “Jackie Big Tits” and “Matchbox” brought the tempo back up, with fans pogoing along to the fast-paced hooks. And when “Always Where I Need to Be” hit, the venue turned into a full-on indie rock revival — part 2008, part 2025, all joy.

One of the more surprising highlights of the night came during “Sweet Emotion,” a newer track that leaned into funk and soul grooves without feeling forced. It was a confident reminder that The Kooks are still expanding their sound, even as they honor their roots.

After closing the main set with the irresistibly upbeat “Junk of the Heart (Happy),” the band returned for a three-song encore that cemented the night’s status as a celebration. “See the World” was a declaration — a reminder that their perspective, once shaped by youth and wide-eyed optimism, still resonates. And of course, they saved “Naïve” for last. That signature riff hit like a wave, and the entire room belted it out with a mix of bliss, heartbreak, and nostalgia.

It’s easy to understand why The Kooks have found new life with Gen Z. Their songs are simple but smart, sweet but not saccharine, and filled with an earnestness that feels timeless. As Pritchard danced across the stage, leading a crowd of all ages in one last singalong, you got the sense that this band has cracked the code to staying relevant without losing themselves.

This wasn’t a greatest hits show. It was a band reconnecting with their roots, energized by the very fans who first fell in love with Inside In/Inside Out — and those just discovering it for the first time on TikTok. The Kooks have never sounded more like themselves.

Setlist:

Enjoy some additional photos from The Kooks June 4, 2025 show at The Anthem. All images are copyrighted and courtesy of Ari Strauss.