Green Issac / Kolumbia / Karl Thomson
Live & Unheard, Lighthouse, Poole
It had been a while since we were all gathered in the Sherling Studio for Live and Unheard, but on a Saturday evening in March, the series returned—and what a return it was. Playing to a full house, the latest instalment once again demonstrated why this event has become such a trusted platform for both established and emerging talent on the South Coast. The night sold out, largely thanks to the loyal following of one of the performing bands, and the atmosphere reflected that anticipation.
Organised with trademark care and a strong sense of community by Hangover Hill, and hosted with the unmistakable charm of Si Genero, the evening brought together a fresh line-up of artists and an audience eager to discover something new. What unfolded was a night of honest performances, compelling song writing, and the kind of intimate atmosphere that only Live and Unheard seems able to conjure—proof, once again, that grassroots music is very much alive and thriving in the area.
Opening the night was Karl Thomson, a Dorset-based singer-songwriter who has been writing since the age of 15. With a clear commitment to original material, Karl blends elements of rock, folk, and alternative styles to create a sound that feels both personal and reflective of his journey. Joined by Tom Read on bass and Luke Ayriss on drums, his set unfolded like a musical diary, each song representing a different chapter of his life.
He kicked things off with Dr Hyde, a rocky opener with occasional shades of Nick Cave in his vocal delivery, immediately setting the tone for the evening. Like many creatives, Karl has experienced periods of writer’s block—I Remember emerged from one of those challenging moments. Behind the Doors followed, beginning as a slow, melodic piece with a near-spoken vocal over electric guitar, before building as the bass introduced a driving rhythm.
One of the standout moments came with Primrose Motel, written last autumn during a particularly vulnerable time for Karl. As the rest of the band left the stage, he delivered a stripped-back, deeply personal performance. The haunting refrain—“Sing for me angel, keep me alive in your dreams”—lingered long after the song had ended.
With the band returning, Karl closed his set with some of his more recent material, including a song dedicated to someone special. Throughout, his storytelling added depth to each performance, giving the audience insight into the emotions and experiences behind the music. The songs shifted between melancholy and anger, but always remained grounded in honesty.
Karl Thomson is an artist whose work resonates on a genuine level—one that invites further listening long after the night is over.
Kolombia certainly brought a crowd with them. I’ve now had the pleasure of seeing this band perform their original music three times—one of which may even have been their very first outing back in the summer. Most recently, I caught them at The Bear Cave, where they were competing in a battle of the bands for a chance to play the Vocalzone Stage at Teddy Rocks—and they would absolutely suit it.
This high-energy indie rock quartet from Wimborne, all aged just 15 or 16, are already writing songs far beyond their years. Made up of Fin, Rex, Oscar, and Leo, the band’s instinctive stage presence—confident but never cocky—is evident from the very start.
The crowd were encouraged to get on their feet as soon as the music kicked in, and the set delivered an electrifying burst of youthful adrenaline. It’s unusual to see the drummer take on lead vocals, and when the first song began, new listeners could be seen trying to work out where the voice was coming from—but it works, balanced well with strong vocals out front.
We were also treated to “Shine”, an original track that had never been performed live before. Debuting a new song in such an intimate setting is a risk, but it paid off—it was a real crowd pleaser. With a touch of Oasis in their intros, they moved through the set with ease, finishing on their debut single “I Want You”. As soon as the chorus hit, the audience locked in—some even singing along, despite this being a room largely unfamiliar with the band.
These guys are evolving fast. Definitely ones to watch.
In contrast to the rawness of Kolombia, the musical experience of Green Isaac on stage felt refined and deliberate. Long embedded in the local music scene, the band recently made a significant comeback in early 2026 with their latest album Branch. This performance marked their first live show in a decade.
True to their signature “sophisticated” indie pop style, the songs explore themes of resilience, family, and long-standing creative collaboration, with several reimagined from their 2015 album Little Noises.
As Paul Holman (guitar and lead vocals) eased into the opening lines of Imposter with his characteristically warm, melodic voice, he was joined seamlessly by Mark Arnold on guitar and Phil Brickell on bass. Taking on the World incorporated recorded backing tracks that enhanced the hypnotic quality of the vocal harmonies, adding texture without detracting from the live feel.
Love’s Cocoon shifted the mood entirely—a pared-back acoustic number where Paul’s quietly confident delivery created one of those rare moments when the room seemed to shrink, leaving only the audience and the song.
With long-term collaborator Andy absent due to an unfortunate accident, Paul also stepped in on drums, having had just a week to learn the material. It was hard not to watch him—his unhurried, almost hypnotic playing added depth and subtlety without ever overwhelming the space.
As often happens in the intimate focus of a studio setting, the new album seemed to pass quickly. But after such a long wait for their return, it felt only right that the audience was rewarded with an encore. Green Isaac remain another Dorset gem—one I’ll certainly be adding to the playlist.
In the end, this latest edition of Live and Unheard once again demonstrated why it has become a staple in so many people’s diaries. Each act offered something distinct—whether the seasoned craftsmanship of Green Isaac, the surging energy of Kolumbia, or the thoughtful sincerity of Karl Thomson—together creating an evening that left the audience eager for more of this local talent.
Set Lists
Karl Thomson
Dr Hyde
Station
I remember
Behind the doors
After the storm
Primrose motel
Conversations on a flower moon
Dark Room painted Blue
County Lines
Kolumbia
Interpol
Falling
Shine
Blue
Tired Eyes
Reach Out
I want you
Green Issac
Imposter
Slow Down
I Keep Inside
Getaway Car
Taking on the World
Loves Cocoon
Candles on Birthdays
Falling back to you
Five Miles Behind You
Push and Pull
Light Years Away
Butterfly
Juggler (Possible)
Thanks to Hangover Hill’s continued dedication to spotlighting original artists and Si Genero’s effortless hosting, the night captured the true spirit of discovery that defines this series. As the audience filtered out past the merch stands, it was clear that Live and Unheard remains a vital heartbeat in the local music scene—one that will no doubt keep drawing us back for more.
Next Live and Unheard is back on a Thursday night on May 28th. Definitely a date to put the diary now featuring Poole Vigilantes, Sirpico and Chasing Dolls. Tickets can be purchased here.
Links
https://www.facebook.com/greenisaacband
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583233695779
https://karlthomsonmusic.co.uk
Article By Maria Primmer (Duchess of Corfe Mullen)
Photography by Lunn Burt
