Live at Galatos
30 November 2024
Live Music Review by Music Journalist: Paul Marshall
Half Hexagon at The Others Way Music Festival
Having attended more live shows than Gordon Ramsay has recipes, I’ve seen it all—from the painstakingly meticulous to the gloriously chaotic. As a songwriter and musician with an ear for just about every genre under the sun, it was no surprise that tonight’s lineup at The Other Way festival served up something for everyone. In fact, it was nothing short of a sonic smorgasbord, a carefully curated feast of aural sculpting that tantalised every sense.
Half Hexagon
On a night jam-packed with standout acts, Half Hexagon—comprising Yolanda Fagan, Julien Dyne, and James Milne—were the undisputed headliners. With a seamless fusion of live performance and backing tracks, this three-piece delivered an electrifying set that had the crowd in a euphoric trance. From the very first beat, they captivated the audience, proving themselves as not only musicians but true entertainers.
Julien Dyne, in particular, was nothing short of mesmerising. His approach to beat-making is genuinely one of a kind, crafting intricate layers of rhythm and texture that kept the audience hanging on every moment. When they dropped into "The Method," Dyne’s live delivery was both intricate and explosive, his fingers dancing across the drum skins with precision and flair. It was a masterclass in live beat-making, and Dyne’s presence on stage commanded absolute attention.
James Milne, on keys, was a whirlwind of energy. Thrashing his arms across the piano, Milne’s intensity matched the music’s pulsating rhythms. His wild, exuberant movements while jumping and dancing between songs created a visual spectacle, turning the keys into an extension of his own body. There was no mistaking his commitment to every note, as his music swirled through the room, wrapping the audience in hypnotic, groovy rhythms.
Then, there was Yolanda Fagan. A true star on stage, Fagan’s connection to the music was palpable. She didn’t just perform; she became the music. As soon as they hit “The Method” with its infectious hook—“It’s not the size of the ship”—Fagan’s energy was contagious. Mid-performance, she dropped into backward rolls on the stage, fully engaging with the crowd, mic in hand, delivering her vocals flawlessly even while upside down. The audacity of her performance was matched only by the intensity of her voice, which soared to stunning heights. At one point, she screamed with a raw, in-tune power that escalated from a whisper to a gut-wrenching, soul-piercing roar. It was a moment of pure vulnerability and strength, all at once.
Then came “The Beast”—a track that lived up to its name. The groove was absolutely infectious, with intricate drum patterns, harmonising vocals, and Milne’s keys pulsating through the venue. The crowd was in a full-blown dance fever, moving in sync with the music as the trio continued to dazzle with their stage antics. It was a beautiful chaos of mesmerising vocals, electrifying beats, and undeniable charisma.
Throughout the night, Half Hexagon demonstrated a rare mix of innovation, stage presence, and passion that set them apart from their peers. They weren’t just performing music; they were creating an atmosphere—a magnetic energy that the audience couldn’t help but soak in. It’s clear Half Hexagon isn’t just a band to see—they’re a band you feel. And with every set, they continue to prove that they’re on the path to something truly special.
Reviewer: Paul Marshall
WATCH THE LIVE VIDEO at Paul Was There -