GIRLY REPORT: HANNAHBELLA, HCK9 & Lo Rays

14th March 2026 @ The Black Heart, Camden.

Camden on a Saturday night has a vibe that I wish I could bottle, specifically for the days that feel grey and slow. Although one part I would remove would be the irritating crowds at the underground station and rude passengers. But it was all worth it to catch the London leg of the UK Lo Rays tour as they get ready to release their upcoming EP (which I will be reviewing over on boolintunes.com). What better place to continue the tour than in one of Camden’s most popular drinking spots and performance venues?

HannahBella began the night on a vibe I could only describe as beautifully sorrowful. Performing blithe melodies alongside sentimental lyrics that had the audience swaying along as if they were under a spell. The Ireland originating vocalist continued to keep the audience enthralled as she progressed into more upbeat songs that felt more rebellious than emotional as the tone became resentment over misery. Whereas HCK9 brought on a heavier melody and more solemn timbre to the night where themes of struggling with sobriety and downright dejection were explored. The industrial elements of the performance added to the pleading nature of the lyrics, feeling reminiscent of a comedown from a high.

Lo Rays closed the night on a performance high on anticipation, starting their set on a techy synthesiser that would put Cyberpunk to shame. The dedication to their style and distinct post-apocalyptic story telling was impressive. Almost nostalgic for the early days of Sleep Token and their first Black Heart gig. I only wish the stage was larger to accommodate their performance. It felt odd that such a meticulous concert was confined to such a small area. The vocals were projected so powerfully alongside the precise instrumentals that you would forget you were in a hundred and fifty cap venue.

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