Presented by Communion One, with support from Lauren Dejey
Eden Rain captivated her audience last night with an emotionally rich performance, blending her evocative lyrics with a grounded yet ethereal stage presence. Her recent single Taking set the tone for the night, expressing a melancholy reflective of past experiences yet with a hopeful undercurrent. Hailing from Yorkshire and now immersed in London’s music scene, Eden brings a unique sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Her voice—smoky and warm, akin to Amy Winehouse—held the crowd’s attention, especially during Terry and Julie, a song that feels like it could be a lost Back to Black track.
Live, Eden’s music takes on a rawness and vulnerability, enhanced by the candid moments she shared between songs. These moments humanized her performance, allowing the audience to connect beyond the music. Unafraid to take her time, she didn’t rush through her set, embodying a refreshing authenticity on stage. Her music reflects a wide array of influences, drawing from Carole King’s soft-rock storytelling and the edgy sounds of Big Thief, Wolf Alice, and Clairo.
Her fashion sense—layered tees over long sleeves, a black tutu-like skirt, and punk-inspired platform boots—paid homage to 90s grunge and emo rock, aligning with her music’s emotional depth. The outfit captured an Avril Lavigne-inspired aesthetic that complements her introspective lyrics and slightly rebellious energy.
Oh God stood out with its bluntly honest lyrics, like “Maybe I should take more drugs / Maybe I should loosen up,” delivered with seductive energy and a touch of self-awareness. Backed by additional vocalists, this song’s fuller texture added excitement and intensity. However, Closer was the night’s highlight, its delicate falsetto creating an intimate atmosphere that felt made for solitary 2 a.m. drives.
Eden’s balance of classic and contemporary influences sets her apart in the London indie scene. Her powerful yet understated presence, coupled with her willingness to be vulnerable onstage, resonated with the audience. In a bustling city of emerging talent, Eden Rain stands out as a captivating artist crafting her own space in indie music.
Tune in to BBC Radio 1 on the 20th November from 7PM, where Eden’s performance will be broadcast live as part of Radio 1’s New Music Live in Halifax. Her new EP is out on Friday, so make sure to give it a spin!