CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE ACTS WE CAUGHT AT SXSW!
AUSTIN, TX- Every year, the British Music Embassy is a highlight for me at SXSW—home to unforgettable performances from the likes of Jacob Collier, Fontaines D.C., and Dream Wife. This year’s showcase featured another thrilling crossover act: sibling duo The Molotovs, who cemented their potential to leave a devoted U.S. fanbase in their wake.
Comprising 17-year-old frontman Mathew Cartlidge and older sister Issey Cartlidge, 19, on bass, The Molotovs surf the line of punchy indie-punk with rock-solid swagger. Their music is filled with precise riffs, and a plethora of catchy hooks. Their performance was confident and overflowing with energy performances. They served up sharp, new-wave-infused rock songs that screamed youthful urgency and mod revival attitude. They channel the spirit of old-school punk and Brit rock and give them new life. It’s the kind of adrenaline-fueled rock that I can see crossing oceans effortlessly.
From the moment they hit the stage, Mathew and Issey looked every bit the part—styled like they’d just stepped off a vintage rock magazine cover and moving with the effortless swagger of seasoned performers. They didn’t just play rock stars… they were rock stars. Their chemistry was electric, and their presence radiated charisma from head to toe. Even though I was stuck shooting from the side of the stage, it was impossible to miss the full force of their performance. Mathew tore across the stage, leaping into the air and singing with laser precision while firing off tight, punchy guitar lines. Issey held it down on bass, exuding cool confidence with every note and tossing the audience sharp glances that oozed rock and roll attitude. They absolutely lit the place up.
Describing their music as “sharp, punchy anthems” feels almost too reserved. The Molotovs bring rock with kinetic attitude—each song propelled by tight drums, righteous riffs, and choruses that get stuck the moment they finish. Critics have compared them to ’70s/’80s acts like The Jam, Sex Pistols, and Green Day and based on the live show I caught, I think they confirmed the consensus. These are young Londoners with seasoned stagecraft, anthemic songwriting, and a youthful joie de vivre that can’t be ignored.
It wasn’t just their music or visuals—it was the total experience: the attention to dynamics, their bold delivery, and stage presence that was impeccably choreographed. I found myself thinking: this is exactly what rock music needs right now. If The Molotovs can translate this onslaught of energy to U.S. audiences consistently, they’re poised for a breakthrough.
As I left SXSW, I wondered how fast I’d be scrambling to catch them again. The British Music Embassy has once more introduced a powerhouse act. I can’t wait to see what they do next.
Follow The Molotovs on Facebook, Instagram and X.
CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE ACTS WE CAUGHT AT SXSW!
******************
LIVE CLIPS
