Bryony Dunn & The Forest brings deliciously refreshing wild sounds to Camden gig

Indie-folk artist Bryony Dunn & The Forest brought a string of mesmerising tunes to Camden’s The Water Rats.

Supporting a capella group AXIOM, the band effortlessly moved through a set of captivating hits overlayed by delicate harmonies and swelling rock hooks.

The group is led by powerful front-woman and lead songwriter Bryony Dunn, whose love for 70s-inspired sounds fuels the band’s blended sonic identity.

This night, she was joined by her band mates and close friends to deliver a vibrant set underscored by a palpable environmental sensibility.

A refreshing thoughtfulness lies behind Dunn’s lyrics and environmentally concerned messages, made beautifully accessible by the group’s catchy sound, which is nestled in the space between retro indie pop and folk rock.

“We’re here to remind you that you’re all wild, you’re all nature,” the singer spoke, before launching into a ravishingly unique song about sexting and climate change.

Throughout the set, an ethereal quality bled through each song, driven by the five-piece’s sensitive harmonies and Dunn’s wild, impassioned vocals.

While the first few songs of the night showcased a heavier, folk-rock quality, Dunn and her band soon transitioned into a run of more acoustic love songs.

Twist of Fate— the second love song of the night— stood out in particular. The steady ballad’s humbly delightful opening saw Dunn deliver an impressive vocal performance, accompanied by only an acoustic guitar.

Following a tender opening to the song, Dunn was joined by drummer Emma Taylor in lilting harmonies, while the rest of the band offered lingering, gentle swells of electric guitar and bass.

A new nature-inspired song brought back the group’s rockier quality, before they winded down with a quieter, vocally delicious tune that brought the set to a close on a reflective tone.

With a soul-nourishing, earthy sound, Dunn is transporting us back to our wild roots, overflowing with a charming conscience that makes her one to watch.

Bryony Dunn will perform at Ludo’s in Haringey on 18 April. Get tickets here.

Photography by Emma Last