BERRIES is the London-based rock trio that’s redefined jagged-edge garage rock. Composed of Holly Carter (lead vocals, guitar), Lauren Cooper (bass, backing vocals), and Lexi Clark (drums, backing vocals), BERRIES blend off-kilter, fuzzed-out melodies with raw, uplifting lyrics that tackle the heavy battles of mental health. Their 2022 debut album, How We Function, was a revelation, gaining nods from Record Collector, The List, and The Crack, and a solid four out of five stars from Louder Than War, which hailed it as “a really well put together debut album that rocks hard and gets its message across succinctly, with a bristling beat and an intelligence that it takes some bands a few albums to achieve.” That year also saw them hit the airwaves with an exhilarating Radio X session on John Kennedy’s show, setting the stage for what’s next.
Now, BERRIES are back, delivering on those high expectations with their eponymous second album, BERRIES, released on 18 October via Xtra Mile Recordings. Fans caught the trio on the fifth night of their eight-date UK tour at Bristol’s iconic floating venue, Thekla, where the band brought their unique sound to life. The self-titled album is a tantalising blend of doubt and resolve, resignation and optimism—emotions that resonate deeply, delivered through tense, unsettling guitar-driven anthems balanced with the kind of exquisite, uplifting notes that keep the darkness at bay.
As BERRIES hit the stage, they dove headfirst into “Barricade,” and the crowd immediately moved forward, jostling for the best view. The moody lighting and heavy fog only amplified the anticipation in the room, setting the perfect atmosphere for a night of grit and raw energy. Three tracks in, the trio finally paused for introductions, showcasing a contrast between their shy off-stage presence and the blistering confidence they exude while playing. Though relatively new, BERRIES perform with a boldness that defies their years, each member fully in sync yet commanding individual attention. Holly, Lauren, and Lexi each bring something unique, making it hard to decide whether to focus on them as individual powerhouses or as an unstoppable unit.
The set list was a refreshing surprise, featuring the new album played in full, punctuated only by a few choice tracks from their debut. It’s a bold move but one that worked brilliantly here, as the new material feels even more potent live. BERRIES are a band born for the stage, and their music takes on a dirtier, grittier edge in a live setting, with Holly’s jagged guitar riffs and Lauren’s powerful bass lines adding a rawness sometimes lost in the studio. Even minor hiccups—like a hissing amp—added to the night’s authenticity. Standout track “Jagged Routine” was a clear fan favorite, practically begging to be the set opener or encore in future shows.
Closing the night with “Spiral,” BERRIES left the stage to raucous applause from all corners of Thekla. It was a triumphant night, showing that this band is far more than a promising debut—they’re a force to be reckoned with.
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
