Slung at The Boileroom, Guildford: live review and photo galleries

From the moment Slung took the stage, it was clear we were in for something special. With an uncertain setlist, a few technical difficulties, and a shoe-related crisis unfolding mid-song, they delivered a set that was electrifying, hilarious, and perfectly emotional.

vocalist Katie Oldham joked – not that you’d know from their stage presence.

Fresh off the release of their debut album In Ways, Slung have crafted their image – one built on chaotic energy, sincerity, and a sound that’s as heavy as it is heartfelt.

At first, the crowd was fairly static – heads nodding, interest. But by the second song, everything shifted. When the band kicked into ‘Matador’, barefoot and climbing across the stage, shouting about goblin shoes, the room was awake. Phones came out. People were headbanging, screaming, and laughing as the band pushed further into wild joy.

But Slung’s power lies not just in volume – it’s in their honesty. “Sometimes it’s good to be miserable, just gotta feel it,” Oldham said, before launching into another track that was nothing short of cathartic. “I’d rather die than lose control,” she screamed – and we believed it.

There was tenderness too. “We’re all very brave and have tummy aches,” Oldham announced mid-set. The crowd didn’t miss a beat: “We’re proud of you!” someone shouted. It was that kind of night – messy, warm, and full of love.

By the end, the atmosphere was electric. Fans queued at the merch table, and records were signed in every corner. Slung didn’t just play – they captured the room.

Not bad for a band with tummy aches and footwear malfunctions.