Back in London to host a uniquely packed micro-festival, SON Estrella Galicia took over the iconic Paper Dress Vintage on a sparkling Thursday night in September. As Summer slips into Fall, the promise of nights filled with live music is utterly thrilling. Add beer, street food, DJ sets, clothing workshops (and more) and you’ve got what SON Estrella Galicia has created: a living, breathing event that celebrates experience. It’s just really damn cool.Â
Upon walking into Paper Dress Vintage, I was immediately absorbed by the dim lights and hum of music. A glance around depicted people all over the venue, excitedly engaging with the various experiences that SON Estrella Galicia had organised. A stand was set up where people could sew and repair their old clothing (which they were encouraged to bring along). True to Paper Dress Vintage’s roots, having this touch at the event felt special and expertly thought out. I may or may not have walked away with a Paper Dress patch. There was also a booth where you could participate in ‘What does your beer sound like?’, an immersive experience combining the taste of your beer with the thrill of creating a new tune.
Naturally, the beer was calling, so next up was a trip to the bar for an ice cold Estrella. Beer in hand, a peek around the rest of the venue was necessary. Outside there was a DJ Set happening, food being given out, and more beer to drink. It was clear that Paper Dress Vintage was teeming with music and beer lovers who were completely enjoying this night.
After savouring a serving of delicious street food, it was time to head upstairs to catch The New Eves, a band that is anything but basic. With an interesting array of instruments (including violin, cello, flute, guitar, and more), The New Eves create an unusual blend of sound that almost feels like you are witnessing a seance, some sort of spiritual ritual. As the band members floated in-between instruments, the crowd seemed to get more and more into the unexpected folklore-punk.
Next up were Coach Party, the headliners of the event. It was instantly apparent that the band had die-hard fans there that night. This indie group knows their sound through and through, and they put on a powerful set that felt instinctual and deep-rooted. When ‘Everybody Hates Me’ blasted through Coach Party’s instruments, the entire room felt it, and more than a few people were screaming along.
At the end of Coach Party’s set, Paper Dress was buzzing. I realised what I was watching was a rarity; people did not file out after, they stayed to enjoy the rest of the event. Downstairs of the venue was packed again with people getting more beer and discussing the live music they had just heard. After finally leaving the venue, I reflected on the utter fullness of the night, of leaving with the satisfaction of having experienced so many new things at once.
A truly unforgettable night, you do not want to miss the next time SON Estrella Galicia is in town.
