The Makings: A Masterclass in Live Performance
It’s rare to attend a gig that leaves you exhilarated, uplifted, and completely spellbound—but The Makings’ Friday night performance at The Attic Bar was exactly that. Of the past year filled with live music, this was a standout moment: a show brimming with infectious energy, world-class musicianship, and an undeniable sense of joy.
We’ve paid over £100 for concert tickets and left underwhelmed. The Makings, however, delivered a show that was worth far more than the price of admission. Their mission is simple: “To make sure you leave with a bigger smile than when you arrive.” By the time the final note rang out, there wasn’t a face in the room without one. On a cold, drizzly night, they brought the kind of warmth and vibrancy that can’t be manufactured—only felt.
A Band Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts
The seven-piece ensemble is a powerhouse of talent:
• Conor – Guitar & Vocals
• Carys – Vocals
• Vincenzo – Bass
• Jackson – Drums
• Vee – Saxophone, Flute & Vocals
• Keifer – Trumpet & Trombone
• Athenagoras – Keys
Individually, each musician is exceptional, their technical prowess evident from the first song. Keifer and Vee, in particular, showcased impressive multi-instrumental versatility. But The Makings are far more than just skilled players; they are a unit, seamlessly blending genres and pushing creative boundaries. Their sound draws from jazz, blues, rock, funk, and soul, creating something both familiar and utterly fresh.
A Sound That Defies Categorisation
Where many bands confine themselves to genre conventions, The Makings revel in defying them. Their deep-groove aesthetic is built on tight, jazz-inflected rhythms, bluesy guitar flourishes, and lush vocal harmonies, all anchored by a rhythm section that is as fluid as it is rock-solid. There is a rawness to their lyricism—an unflinching honesty that explores life’s struggles but always seeks the light. It’s music with depth, delivered with an infectious, feel-good energy.
Commanding the Stage with Pure Charisma
From the opening moments of their 90-minute set, The Makings had complete control of the room. Their performance wasn’t just about playing music; it was an experience, a shared moment of unfiltered joy.
Frontman Conor prowled the stage with the presence of a preacher at a revival, his fervour contagious as he led the crowd into the church of funk and soul. Beside him, Carys delivered a vocal performance that was nothing short of breathtaking—powerful, precise, and seemingly effortless. Her voice soared, carrying echoes of the greats, yet distinctively her own, delivered with a warmth and charisma that made the audience feel part of something special.
The rest of the band had their moments to shine, each instrumentalist stepping forward to take the reins, ensuring that every person in the crowd was fully engaged—not just as spectators, but as participants in the celebration.
A Setlist That Showcased Their Range
Spanning 15 songs, the setlist was a testament to the band’s versatility. Crowd favourites such as “C’est La Vie” and their latest release, “I’m a Bee,” sat comfortably alongside brand-new material like “Do You Feel Alive” and “Just Fine,” hinting at a bright future for a band that is only just beginning to make waves.
The Verdict: Essential Live Music
The Makings embody everything that makes live music essential: passion, musicianship, and an ability to connect with their audience in a way that transcends the stage.
Venues, book this band. Festivals, book this band. If you love music, go and see this band.
Because this is what live music should be: an experience that leaves you walking away lighter, happier, and desperate to do it all over again.
@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
