It’s been a long time coming, roughly eight years or so since the electrifying rock and roll duo commanded any stage in Boston. This past Friday night on February 23rd at Royale, The Kills finally returned in support of their new album ‘God Games’ and delivered a frenetic and mesmerizing performance full of genuine rock ‘n’ roll attitude and undeniable swagger.
The somewhat seedy, lo-fi atmosphere of Royale was the perfect setting for the band’s latest tour stop. The dynamic duo of American singer and songwriter Alison Mosshart and English guitarist and songwriter Jamie “Hotel” Hince took the stage with an undeniable presence, captivating the audience from the moment they stepped into the spotlight.

Hince and Mosshart slyly meandered their way onto the stage, decorated simply by a silver, sparkling backdrop and their minimalistic backline of gear. Hince, casually clad in a suit jacket over a T-shirt, jeans, and throwback vintage boots found his way to his mark, all while waving and smiling at the crowd. Mosshart and her wild, blonde hair, slithered to and fro in a loose, silky shirt that draped over her slender frame – exaggerating her long legs adorned by suffocatingly tight black jeans and wedge heels.
As the lights took hold, the talented duo strapped on their guitars and dug into the sultry “Kissy Kissy”, taunting their fans with just a taste of what was in store. As the drum machine took hold, rocking the Royale, Hince took command of the music behind “U.R.A. Fever;” His gritty tone fit seamlessly with Mosshart’s alluring, smoky vocals. Hince expertly engaged with the audience, both with his hand gestures and smiles that never ceased. Mosshart was in constant motion, like a whirling dervish, she paced back and forth with an unrelenting stammer. At times, she would fall to her knees, and bend over almost completely backwards all while engaging with Hince – putting on quite a show for all to see. The musical relationship between the two was palpable throughout the entire set.

With a knockout set comprising 19 songs, including a three-song encore, The Kills left no stone unturned in showcasing their diverse catalog. Each song was delivered with raw energy and intensity, reflecting the band’s signature style that seamlessly blends elements of rock, punk, and blues. From the haunting allure of “U.R.A. Fever” to the pulsating rhythm of “103,” the performance was a rollercoaster of emotions that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats.
One of the standout moments of the night was undoubtedly the performance of tracks from their latest album, “God Games.” The audience was treated to a sonic journey through the album’s rich tapestry of soundscapes, with Mosshart’s powerhouse vocals and Hince’s masterful guitar work shining through. Tracks like the title song “God Games” and the anthemic “Future Starts Slow” resonated with fans, serving as a testament to the band’s evolution while staying true to their roots.

As the night progressed, The Kills proved why they are one of the most formidable acts in the alternative rock scene. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable. Mosshart’s mesmerizing vocals and stage presence were always perfectly complemented by Hince’s virtuosic guitar prowess. Each song flowed seamlessly into the next, creating an immersive experience that kept the audience enraptured until the very end.
The climax of the evening came with the ultimate finale, “Sour Cherry,” a high-octane anthem that left the crowd begging for more. As the final chords reverberated through the venue, it was clear that The Kills had left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. Their performance was a testament to the power of live music, transcending mere entertainment to become a visceral, unforgettable experience.
The Kills’ concert at Royale in Boston was nothing short of spectacular. With a setlist that spanned their illustrious career and showcased their latest musical offerings, Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of alternative rock. Their performance was a masterclass in musicianship and showmanship, leaving fans hoping that the show wouldn’t end.
Photos by Marc Lacatell










