Words by Olivia Judd (@words.by.liv / @iamlunarjune), Photos by Ciara McMullan (@ciaramcmullanmedia)
Spending a significant portion of my life in Brighton and being a part of the seaside-town’s rich music scene, I have known of ARXX for some time. It’s been nothing short of inspiring to see Hanni and Clara’s music grow and reach far beyond the South of England, from touring Europe with FLETCHER to gracing this year’s BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury.
Following the release of their sophomore album Good Boy at the beginning of October, the duo embarked on a European and UK tour, and I had the pleasure of attending their show at London’s Lafayette in the heart of King’s Cross.
The evening began with a beautifully dark and captivating set from Phoebe Green, whose moody alt-pop sound, sharp lyrical wit, and ethereal vocals captivated the crowd. Her haunting melodies set the perfect tone, preparing the audience for the raw, powerful energy of ARXX.
As the lights dimmed and ARXX took the stage, a sense of anticipation rippled through the room. From the first chord, it was clear that Hanni and Clara were ready to give their all. ARXX’s signature blend of gritty guitar riffs, explosive, layered percussion, and energetic stage presence filled the venue, creating an atmosphere that was both electrifying and intimate.
ARXX delivered a set list packed with both fan favourites as well as new tracks from Good Boy. Songs like ‘The Last Time’ and ‘God Knows’ had the audience singing along, and their cover of ‘Murder on the Dancefloor‘ got everyone’s hands in the air. Hanni’s powerhouse vocals moved effortlessly from fierce and raw to tender and vulnerable, and Clara’s drumming was a force of its own, pushing the energy higher with each track.
The stand out song for me was the third track on their new album, Swim. Hanni introduced the song being about their journey with identity, gender, and coming out as non-binary. The crowd were so deeply supportive and it was clear in that moment how strong the sense of community is within ARXX’s fanbase; it felt like a truly safe space, something which was needed in a week that felt heavy with the U.S election results.
Aside from their undeniable magnetism as musicians and performers, one of the things that struck me most about ARXX’s live show was their chemistry. The audience laughed as much as they danced and applauded, and their warmth created an atmosphere that felt more like friends and equals as opposed to the ‘us and them’ dynamic that often pertains to being on a stage. There’s something so special about the bond that music creates for people, and it’s abundantly clear that years of writing, touring, and performing together has solidified a friendship that will last a lifetime.
As the show wrapped up, it was impossible not to feel a sense of admiration for what ARXX have achieved. Watching them command the stage at Lafayette (which included throwing around five inflatable dogs during Good Boy – iconic), it’s evident that they’ve carved out their own powerful, unapologetic voice within what is undoubtedly an incredibly male dominated scene and genre. It’s easy to see why they’ve earned such a dedicated fanbase; ARXX isn’t just a band to listen to – they’re a band to experience.
ARXX’s second album, Good Boy, is out now.
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