Live Review: A-Sun Amissa with Lauren Mason, She The Throne, Lover’s Leap | The Black Heart, London | 02/09/2026
When the Glossop-based duo A-Sun Amissa collaborated with Torpor’s bassist and poet Lauren Mason to release Water Scores earlier this year, many noise enthusiasts became eager to hear it live. The record feels like something that must be experienced in person rather than simply listened to.
Lover's Leap
The show kicked off with Lover’s Leap, a one-person band that learnt well how to push the limits of sound to create the most distorted noise possible. Their style mixed controlled chaos with wild vocalisations that really grabbed your attention.
What was particularly impressive about Lover’s Leap was their use of cassette tapes to generate background noise that accompanied their intense screams. This created a strong connection that felt both familiar and bold. Before you even had time to settle in, their 20-minute set was already over. This sonic journey invited everyone to immerse themselves in the chaos, marking the true beginning of the experience.
Photo Credit: Sarah Tsang
She The Throne
She The Throne, the masked two-piece from up north, really impressed with their energetic stage presence and unique sound. Their performance was a wild mix of intense distortions, haunting melodies, and experimental vibes that had the crowd completely hooked. They’ve nailed the blend of noise, intricate loops, and distorted trip-hop, delivering a fresh musical experience that stands out in today’s varied music scene.
As soon as they turned the buttons and amps up, the energy was electric, pulling the audience right into their fantasmagoric world. The vocals, reminiscent of Katie Jane Garside of Queenadreena fame, brought an enchanting layer to the show, adding emotional depth to their sound, whilst the turntable felt more like Author & Punisher but angrier. Overall, it was an incredible set that not only showcased their talent but also made a real impact on everyone lucky enough to be there. Their 30-minute set felt like a thrilling ride that zipped by way too fast, leaving everyone craving more as the final larsens faded out. She The Throne is definitely a band to keep an eye on!
Photo Credit: Sarah Tsang
A-Sun Amissa
The Black Heart came alive when A-Sun Amissa and Lauren Mason took the stage. From the very first notes, it was evident that the audience was in for a treat. The set was nothing short of mesmerising, beautifully blending enchanting melodies with Mason’s evocative poetry. Featuring intricate layerings of spoken word and musical loops, each element crafted to create an immersive soundscape. Enhanced by striking sound effects, the auditory experience was further complemented by dazzling visuals projected onto the backdrop.
As the various components came together, Mason’s powerful words resonated like a rising tide, filling the venue with a sense of purpose. The atmosphere was intentionally intimate and contemplative, creating an environment that encouraged reflection and engagement with the performance, making Water Scores a unique sensory experience. Everything blended seamlessly, allowing Mason’s impactful words to wash over us like soothing waves on a shore. The venue’s ambiance was both inviting and introspective, encouraging everyone to fully immerse themselves in the moment.
Photo Credit: Sarah Tsang