What a venue. JT Soar isn’t your average gig spot — it’s small, cosy, and a world away from the usual commercial chaos. No stage, no barriers, no gimmicks. The band plays on the same level as the audience, surrounded by shelves of books and lamps that make it feel more like a bohemian living room than a music venue. Tonight wasn’t about distance — it was about connection.
The event, An Audience with Electric Pets, had a special twist. It was a fundraiser for their upcoming live album, recorded right there and then in this snug, almost candle-lit atmosphere. No bar in sight — instead, your ticket got you free refreshments and the warm buzz of community spirit.
Leah Wilcox
First up was Leah Wilcox from Derby. Only 21, but she’s been performing since she was 14 — and it shows. Her voice is equal parts grit and honey, her songwriting raw and heartfelt. There’s something so authentic about Leah — the kind of artist who reminds you how hard the music industry can be, yet how damn good it feels when real talent breaks through. Every song was her own, every lyric lived-in. She’s got more presence than many acts twice her age and ten times her budget.
Electric Pets
Then came the main event: Electric Pets. Fronted by the always magnetic Emma Buckley, the band oozed that smoky, sultry energy they’re known for. We’ve followed Emma’s solo work for years, but seeing her with a full band was another level entirely. It started with her alone on stage — intimate, acoustic — and one by one, the rest of the gang joined in: guitar, bass, drums, keys, and even a trumpet on one track. By mid-set, the whole room was humming like an old tube amp on overdrive.
Between each song, Emma and the band introduced the next track, giving the audience a glimpse into their stories, inspirations, and little moments of humour. It strengthened that bond between band and audience — you weren’t just watching a show, you were part of it.
Leah returned from the second song onwards, adding rich backing vocals, while guitarist Phil not only locked in with Emma’s harmonies but took the lead on a few numbers himself. And wow — when he did, he showed just how good a voice he has. Smooth, soulful, and full of range, his vocals cut through the mix beautifully, adding a whole new layer of depth to the performance.
It was like MTV Unplugged — but plugged; raw and real, but full of power and swagger.
If you’ve only heard Electric Pets on Spotify, you haven’t really heard them. Live, they’re a different beast — loud, lush, and gloriously human. You could feel every note in your chest. This wasn’t just a gig. It was a moment — the kind you want bottled up and played back on repeat.
I can’t wait to hear this album and relive this night all over again.
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An Audience with Electric Pets – JT Soar – Gig Review @RockNews
