KATSEYE live in London: pop superstars are two members down but on top form
While much has been made of KATSEYE’s alleged identity crisis, the prospect of where they could go next is incredibly exciting
By Ben Jolley
Long before KATSEYE arrive on stage in London, the screams reverberating around The 02 are some of the loudest that Rolling Stone UK has ever heard at an arena.
As the reality show-formed girl group’s very young fans, collectively known as EYEKONS, practically live on TikTok, the music videos that played on screen in place of a support slot – customary at a K-pop concert – amp up the anticipation levels to fever-pitch.
Come the liberal start time of 8.35pm, Yoonchae, Daniela, Lara and Megan (plus a 10-strong troupe of dancers) kick off with a pounding ‘Hootie Frutti’ and the highly-quotable ‘Internet Girl’. The latter’s nonsensical lyrics about eating zucchinis match the chronically-online visual aesthetic via a Windows-era pop up warning that has parents in the room chuckling.
As expected, the youngsters in the stands know every single dance routine. When a 16-year-old near the front barriers is picked as the ‘Gabriela of the Night’, her response when asked if she was familiar with the titular song’s choreography sums up the level of dedication EYEKONS have for their idols. “I think it would be a crime if you didn’t.” Well, quite.
Across the 19-song show, which stretches their strong, if brief, discography, the four touring members – currently missing Manon and Sophia due to health reasons – prove their talents as tireless performers and formidable vocalists.
Megan’s solo dance break during the thumping hyperpop-techno rave of ‘PINKY UP’ is genuinely jaw-dropping, while Lara’s piano-led rendition of ‘Unloveu’ – a ballad that sees fiends putting their arms round one another and swaying – showcases her incredible range.
Watching the group make their way round the arena during a stripped back ‘Time Lapse’, blowing kisses, making heart signs with their hands and being given gifts as they went, their gratitude seems genuine and heartfelt.
In a night that peaks during the intimate moments as well as the hedonistic, club-ready rushes – the breakbeat-tinged ‘Touch’ and the clattering snares of set closer ‘Gnarly’ are also highlights – standard pop tracks like ‘Animal’ (written by Ed Sheeran) make less of an impact.
The cinematic videos in between acts, too, scan a bit like filler, but even the brief disappearances for a quick costume change don’t bring the vibe down. While much has been made of KATSEYE’s alleged identity crisis, the prospect of where they could go next is incredibly exciting.