On Friday, August 9, 2024, The Kraken in Cardiff, California, was the site of Kingfish’s explosive debut, a night that delivered a powerhouse of rock, funk, and soul. From the moment the band hit the stage at 9 PM, it was clear that Kingfish was not just another local band—they were a force of nature. For four hours, the audience was treated to a relentless setlist that had everyone on their feet, dancing, and singing along. This was not just a gig; it was a musical journey that left the crowd begging for more.
Set 1: A Strong Start
Kingfish wasted no time setting the tone for the night with Lenny Kravitz’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” a song that immediately got the crowd buzzing. The energy was palpable as they transitioned seamlessly into War’s “Low Rider,” bringing a funky groove that had everyone swaying to the beat. The band’s tight musicianship was evident from the start, with each member contributing to a sound that was both polished and raw.
The first set was a perfect blend of rock classics and modern hits, with standout performances of The Black Crowes’ “Hard to Handle” and Cracker’s “Low.” Their rendition of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Call Me The Breeze” was another highlight, showcasing the band’s ability to infuse southern rock with their unique style. By the time they closed the set with ZZ Top’s “La Grange,” the crowd was fully engaged, hungry for more.
Set 2: Raising the Stakes
After a brief break, Kingfish returned with even more firepower. They kicked off the second set with The Black Crowes’ “Remedy,” keeping the momentum high. The groove-heavy vibe continued with Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition,” a track that had the dance floor packed with people moving to the rhythm.
As the set progressed, the band delved into some eclectic choices, like Violent Femmes’ “Blister in the Sun” and ZZ Top’s “Cheap Sunglasses,” both of which kept the energy levels high. The setlist was a testament to Kingfish’s versatility, as they effortlessly shifted from rock anthems to funk jams. Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love” and the Allman Brothers’ “Whipping Post” showcased the band’s ability to deliver powerful, blues-infused performances, while Bill Withers’ “Use Me” added a soulful touch to the night.
Set 3: Bringing the Funk
As the clock struck 11 PM, Kingfish launched into their third set with Funkadelic’s “Red Hot Mama,” a track that brought the funk to the forefront. The groove continued with Lenny Kravitz’s “Always on the Run” and Sly and the Family Stone’s “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),” songs that had the crowd dancing and singing along.
The third set was all about keeping the energy up, with the band delivering powerful renditions of The Commodores’ “Brick House” and Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music.” By the time they hit Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground,” the dance floor was a sea of moving bodies. The set concluded with a rousing performance of Joe Cocker’s “I’m Losing You” and The Allman Brothers’ “One Way Out,” leaving the audience buzzing with excitement.
Set 4: A Powerful Finale
As midnight approached, Kingfish showed no signs of slowing down. They opened the final set with “Girlfriend,” immediately followed by the soulful strains of “Midnight Rider” by the Allman Brothers. The band then shifted gears with INXS’s “Mystify” and The Cramps’ “Goo Goo Muck,” songs that kept the energy levels high and the crowd fully engaged.
One of the highlights of the night was their performance of Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in The Wall (pt. 2),” a track that resonated deeply with the audience. Kingfish’s take on Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” kept the energy high, while Lenny Kravitz’s “American Woman” brought a fierce rock edge to the set. The night culminated in a stunning rendition of Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb,” a fitting end to an unforgettable performance.
The Verdict: A Band on the Rise
Kingfish’s debut at The Kraken was nothing short of spectacular. Their ability to blend rock, funk, and soul into a cohesive and electrifying performance left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. The band’s tight musicianship, coupled with their charismatic stage presence, made for a night that will be remembered for a long time.
As the final notes of “Comfortably Numb” echoed through The Kraken, it was clear that Kingfish had made their mark. The crowd’s reaction was unanimous—this band is destined for great things. For those who were lucky enough to witness their debut, it was a night of raw energy, timeless hits, and unforgettable moments. Kingfish has officially arrived, and if their debut is any indication, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey.
Keep an eye out for Kingfish’s upcoming shows, because if their debut at The Kraken is anything to go by, you won’t want to miss what they have in store.