The Alt-Indie Trio Redefining Connection and Chemistry
Emerging from Halifax, West Yorkshire, EEVAH has quickly carved out a reputation for their anthemic sound, impassioned live performances, and deeply engaged fanbase. Initially formed as a duo by vocalist Nicole Hope Smith and multi-instrumentalist/producer Rick McNamara (formerly of Embrace), the addition of drummer Fay Clayton in late 2023 marked a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution. Her arrival injected a raw, organic energy, elevating EEVAH’s already potent mix of synth-pop, dream pop, and alternative rock.
With sonic touchpoints ranging from The National and Wolf Alice to HAIM and London Grammar, EEVAH’s music is a dynamic blend of atmospheric textures and propulsive melodies. Their debut EP, Simplify Life (May 2024), introduced a collection of shimmering, synth-driven anthems, featuring standout tracks like Say It’s Just Us, Notice You, Heartbeat Is Missing, and I Wanna Be Yours. The release was met with acclaim, setting the stage for an explosive year that saw the band sell many venues of their first UK headline tour and land coveted support slots alongside Duran Duran, Everything Everything, Corella, and We Are Scientists.
Beyond the studio and the stage, EEVAH thrives on fostering a direct, meaningful connection with their fans. Through TikTok Live sessions and a robust Patreon community, they offer behind-the-scenes content, unreleased material, and exclusive experiences, reinforcing the fiercely loyal grassroots support that fuels their ascent.
A Triumphant Live Experience at The Louisiana
Fast forward to 2025, and EEVAH returned with I Still Think Of You, the dreamlike lead single from their forthcoming sophomore EP, I Didn’t See It Coming (May 2025). Their spring headline tour, culminating in a sold-out show at Bristol’s iconic The Louisiana, proved that this band is more than just a rising name—it’s a movement.
From the moment they took the stage, it was evident that EEVAH is a band with a clear artistic vision. The stage setup, meticulously curated, reflected their aesthetic with precision. Fay Clayton’s drums were positioned front and center alongside the mic stands, breaking the tired tradition of drummers being relegated to the background. It was a bold statement—EEVAH is a trio in every sense of the word.
The atmosphere in the room was electric yet intimate, the connection between band and audience palpable. Many of those packed into the venue’s upper tier were more than just casual listeners; they were part of EEVAH’s extended musical family, forged through countless livestreams and direct engagement. Nicole effortlessly spotted familiar faces in the crowd, adding to the sense of shared history that defines their live shows.
Opening with Oh My Heart, EEVAH immediately showcased the tight musicianship and refined songwriting that have become their hallmark. The band’s prolific nature—constantly writing, recording, and performing—was evident in a setlist that balanced past, present, and future. Instead of simply leaning on their latest material, they crafted a set that honored their journey, ensuring long-time fans felt as valued as those discovering them for the first time.
Among the new tracks, Lullaby stood out as an instant highlight, its reception proving that EEVAH’s evolution is resonating deeply. The show’s more reflective moments were interwoven with surges of energy, demonstrating their ability to shift from ethereal dream pop to driving, high-energy alt-rock with ease.
Yet, EEVAH isn’t just about the music—they’re about the moments. Nicole’s lighthearted chat about the virtues of Yorkshire Tea mid-set only reinforced their authenticity, while the show’s emotional climax provided an unforgettable closing chapter. Promises transported the audience back to 2020, a nod to the band’s early days, before the night ended on a deeply personal note with I Still Think Of You. As the final song filled the room, two baskets of red roses were handed out, fans lifting them in unison as emotion swelled in every corner of the venue.
On the Brink of Something Bigger
What makes EEVAH special isn’t just their sound—it’s their ability to forge genuine, lasting connections. Their music may draw comparisons to some of indie’s finest, but their relationship with their fans is entirely their own. With I Didn’t See It Coming set for release and their live reputation growing stronger with every performance, EEVAH is no longer a band to watch—they’re a band to believe in. Their breakthrough moment feels inevitable, built not on hype, but on heart, hard work, and an unshakable bond with the people who matter most: their fans.
@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
