Nia Archives Brings Jungle To London

The anticipation on Friday the 8th of November was palpable as everyone was waiting for Nia Archives the West Yorkshire self-appointed Emotional Junglist Artist to come onto the stage for her sold out night at the legendary 02 Academy Brixton. The two support acts were Reek0 and HiTech, and they helped pass the time whilst setting the atmosphere for the night and hyping up the audience. 

The concert started off strong with Nia’s upbeat and D'n'B remix of ‘You’ve Got The Love’, this got everyone singing along and ready to bring the energy for the set. It was great hearing both her own songs and remixes throughout the event as it helped showcase her impressive discography, and kept the listeners entertained and dancing.

The set-up on stage was incredible, Nia was in a booth DJing, and it almost looked like a bedroom which gave a more intimate feel and there were live cameras recording her and the audience too which were shown on the screen behind her at times. The main lyrics were often on the screen whilst Nia was singing. The visual effects and lighting throughout were quite unique and modern, which fitted well with the music. 

‘Off Wiv Ya Headz’ was a crowd favourite, and is a spooky high energy jungle edit that samples the Yeah Yeah Yeahs's 'Heads Will Roll’ (A-Trak Remix). Nia also performed ‘Luv Like’ which features breakbeat drums and her smooth British vocals. ‘Forbidden Feelinz’ blasted from the speakers and features a soulful, reggae and old school jungle inspired beat. At one point a ‘Life’ remix by Jamie xx was featured which got the audience buzzing and raving. 

A lot of the songs from Nia’s Debut 2024 Album ‘Silence is Loud’ were performed, including the thought-provoking ‘Crowded Roomz’ which features Nia’s Britpop inspired vocals and has fast jungle drums. It is about feeling lonely whilst being surrounded by a lot of people and being “Misunderstood by everybody”. The straightforward stripped back pop love song about making it clear you like someone ‘Cards On The Table’ was also played. During this song the crowd wholesomely swung their arms in the air along with Nia who came to the front of the stage to be more connected to the fans.  

Nia played ‘Baianá’ which samples ‘Baianá’ by Barbatuques who are a Brazilian band as the final song of the evening. Nia’s version has a high BPM, jungle infused Brazilian samba and bossa nova vibe. At the start of the song, one of Nia’s team came onto the stage waving Nia’s Union Jack flag with her bunny logo on it, and this helped conclude the concert nicely. 

Overall, the gig was an all round experience with rave culture and jungle at the forefront. Nia has worked hard to bring a diverse crowd together for an unforgettable event and showcase of her talent. Throughout the night Nia kept this crowd involved and present through high energy songs incredible vocals, vibrant visual effects and a drama filled set list. 

Emily Bundock

@emsweirdworld

Image: 'Silence Is Loud' Official Album Cover