Live Review: Mould - The Lexington, London 13/03/2026
MOULD leave The Lexington wanting more.
First up on a lively Friday night at The Lexington, are Martial Arts, whose evocative lyrics such as ‘I saw the rich man cry’ on their song ‘Defector’ are stirring when combined with thunderous drums. Expanding on their 2024 single ‘Triumph’, Singer and lyricist, Jim Marson says: ‘Triumph’ is a rallying cry for anyone who feels stifled by societal pressures. It’s an exploration of the tension between personal desires and the pressures of society. Societal norms can suffocate the younger generation, many of whom can feel out of place in a world that demands conformity. It questions the true cost of such conformity to our own potential and values.” Much like tonight’s headliners MOULD, they are a formidable live band, their lead singer provocatively yelling the punk fuelled mantra ‘Do as I say not as I do’ with increasing intensity in his menacing tone.
Rising from the UK post-punk scene, MOULD are known for short, intense tracks and politically charged energy, in a similar vein to established acts like fellow Bristolians Idles and Fontaines D.C. Emerging from the UK underground scene in the early 2020s, they’ve gained attention for their fast, abrasive sound and DIY ethos, channelling traditional British punk while leaning into the current post-punk revival that gives them their own distinctive sound. A charismatic figure onstage, their lead singer Joe Sherrin possesses a great turn of phrase and spiky vocal delivery that adds real depth to the scuzzy, visceral guitars. Their latest single ‘Falling Posture’ released last month really captures the sense of alienation of adolescent British life: ‘Comfortable wasting time/Dismantling all my enthusiasm/The languid medium mind’, the anguished vocals and uptight lyrics feeling incredibly apt in the bleak British economy. Part of the same wider UK scene that has recently produced bands like shame, MOULD’s sound veers more intro hardcore-punk territory and feels distinctly stripped back.
MOULD have built a steady momentum through their singles and EPs rather than a large catalogue so far, and these impressive tracks circulating in the UK indie circuit have helped them develop somewhat of a cult following in small venues and DIY spaces, The Lexington’s lively Friday night crowd reflected the hype the band are clearly revelling in. Their tracks are characterised by their raw production. minimal overdubs and erratic tempo changes, giving their live shows a palpable sense of unpredictability in the true punk sprit and translating very well to sweaty small room gigs like tonight’s. Their short and relentless songs give the band an intoxicating energy that feels fitting on a buzzing Friday night. Both chaotic and tight, their crowd driven set inspires passionate moshing and some great singalong moments.
Describing themselves on their website as an ‘Unhinged musical joyride’, MOULD certainly know how to have a good time, with the lead singer suddenly quipping to a crowd member: “How did you get an Aperol spritz?” as he sips his can of beer, which gets a big laugh. They take many opportunities to address their seemingly adoring crowd. Showcasing new single ‘Lucid’, lead singer Joe announces it will be on their brilliantly titled debut album ‘Hoping As A Coping Mechanism’, with an eagerly awaited release date on July 10th, perfectly poised to take the summer festival season by storm as they truly break the MOULD with an inspiring sound full of punk promise.
Words by Brendan Sharp
