Live Review: Junk at Sidney and Matilda

Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of watching ‘Junk’ at Sidney and Matilda. 

Their set was nothing short of mesmerizing, a slow-burning journey through hazy, dreamlike soundscapes that completely transported the audience.

Junk’s music carries a soft, ethereal quality - gentle yet immersive. The lead vocals were delicate and haunting, weaving seamlessly through a wash of reverberating guitars. Each track felt like a moment suspended in time, with melodies that lingered long after the final note.

A standout moment of the night for me was their performance of ‘Trousers’, a beautifully crafted song that explores themes of intimacy and emotional connection. The lyrics convey a quiet longing, a desire to truly know someone beyond the surface, and were delivered with a raw, heartfelt sincerity. 

Adding to the evening’s highlights, Junk also offered a stunning reimagining of 10cc’s ‘I’m Not in Love’. Their slowed-down, darker rendition stripped the track of its original soft-rock sheen and transformed it into something far more haunting, layering shadowy textures over the already melancholic lyrics.

Sonically, Junk strikes a balance between the dreamy allure of 90s shoegaze pioneers like ‘Slowdive’ and the modern indie charm of bands like ‘Wolf Alice’ and ‘NewDad’. Their sound is hypnotic, enveloping listeners in an atmosphere that feels both fresh and deeply nostalgic. 

So, for any of you lot in Sheffield, keep your eyes peeled for upcoming gigs—you won’t want to miss the chance to catch these live!