As if they’d never left, Kingfisha are back on the stage. The best part of four years since the release of the ‘Promises’ EP, there’s an air of keen anticipation as the ‘Fish prepare to launch their brand new, debut self-titled album.

Always consummate showmen, little time is wasted launching into the set. First impressions are with the bass heavy feel, much darker than previous work. The new single ‘Looking Glass’ is recognised from its radioplay with a knowing cheer from the crowd. A cover of The Paragon's ‘I've Got To Get Away’ is an excellent choice, and is performed with a distinct danceable flavour.

The warmth between the crowd and the band is palpable — this is very much a local affair with the packed Hi-Fi located just a block from the Tanuki Lounge where the album was recorded. Bassist Shannon Green tells us how he can’t remember ‘the last time so many people I love being in one room’. Well, shucks.

In a show of confidence with the familiar crowd, the band scatter their old songs among the new, each given a deft remix, and all met with a grateful cheer.
‘Promises’ begins in silence with only frontman Anthony ‘Gummo’ Forrest’s hushed and dreamy opening line; ‘you promise me the world, all you’ve given me’s an atlas’. The crowd hoots with pleasure. With all the new tracks introduced tonight, there’s an impression that these songs are designed for live performance, and the recorded album will be a reflection of that.