Cassia @ The 1865 Review: Modern Singaporean Dining
Cassia electrified The 1865 in Southampton, injecting thier signature tropical-infused energy into a memorable performance following the release of their latest album, “everyone, outside.” The indie trio from Macclesfield, known for seamlessly blending indie heritage with Afrobeat influences, delivered an energetic set that captivated the audience. Their dynamic performance, featuring unique instrumental interludes and a Pacific-themed riff, solidified their status in the indie music scene, and even earned them an AIM Awards nomination. This performance marks yet another milestone in their ascent from busking in Cornwall to international acclaim, with sold-out tours and millions of streams to their name. News Directory 3 is thrilled to shine a light on bands like Cassia. See what’s next for this rising band as they continue their international tour!
Cassia Band Energizes Southampton with Tropical Indie Sound
Updated May 26, 2025
macclesfield’s Cassia, fresh off the release of their third album, everyone, outside, brought their tour to Southampton on May 16, delivering a vibrant set at The 1865. The indie music trio,known for their tropical-infused energy,played alongside supporting band Arcy Drive before concluding their UK tour in London.
Opening with the album’s title track, Cassia immediately connected with the enthusiastic crowd. Frontman Rob Ellis, along with Lou Cotterill and Jacob Leff, rotated through a variety of instruments, including congas, bongos, semi-acoustic guitars, and synthesizers.The band incorporated voice effects and interludes, including a Pacific-themed riff from The Safaris’ “Wipe Out,” adding unique touches to their performance. The set included an encore, featuring “Reframe” and closing with “Right There.”
Cassia’s sound blends genres and cultures,drawing inspiration from a trip to Mexico that influenced tracks like “miles out” and “here and now.” The band actively involved fans by recording tracks live on TikTok. This positive energy translated to the stage, enhanced by the band’s camaraderie. Drummer Jacob leff’s nightly “gratitude” moment, documented on TikTok, highlights the band’s close dynamic. Their rise from busking in Cornwall to international tours and acclaim from Rolling Stone UK and BBC radio 1 showcases their unique niche in the indie music scene.
Influenced by Manchester’s indie heritage and bands like Foals and vampire Weekend, Cassia also incorporates jazz-tinged Afrobeat elements from artists like Ebo Taylor and Fela Kuti. This diverse mix translates well live, with flexible playing and instrument switching keeping the audience engaged. The stage at The 1865 was decorated with potted plants, astroturf, and LED lamps, setting them apart from other indie bands. While staying true to their recorded sound, Cassia mixed tracks from different albums and singles, including a ballad version of “Don’t make a Scene.”
After signing with Distiller Records in 2018, Cassia released their debut album, Replica. Tracks like “Right There,” “Drifting,” and “Gotta Get through Til Monday” have garnered millions of streams, leading to sold-out tours in the UK and Europe. The band won the Reeperbahn’s Anchor Award in 2022 and received an AIM Awards nomination for Best Live Act. Cassia is expanding their reach with upcoming headlining shows in the US and Mexico, solidifying their presence in the indie music genre.
What’s next
Cassia plans to continue touring and creating new music, further solidifying their place in the indie music scene and expanding their international fanbase.