From the Holler to the Roundhouse: 49 Winchester and Wyatt Flores Bring Appalachian Soul to London
- Alan Bryce
- Oct 18
- 3 min read
Roundhouse, London – 14th October 2025
WORDS / IMAGES ALAN BRYCE
On a brisk autumn night in Camden, 49 Winchester brought the heart of Appalachia to the historic Roundhouse, delivering a performance that was both emotionally resonant and musically electrifying. As part of their “Welcome to the Holler” UK/EU Tour, the Virginia-based band played to a sold-out crowd, marking this, their largest headline show to date.
The evening began with a stirring set from Wyatt Flores, whose rising star status was more than justified. Flores’ performance was intimate yet powerful, showcasing his ability to blend traditional country with modern emotional depth. His set included:
Tulsa and Eleanor
Welcome to the Plains
Running Out of Time / West of Tulsa
Jersey Giant
Way I Do
Milwaukee
When I Die
How to Save a Life
Please Don’t Go
Oh Susannah
Flores’ voice carried a quiet intensity, and his storytelling connected deeply with the crowd. By the time he closed his set, the Roundhouse was fully engaged, setting the perfect tone for the main act.
As the audience waited in anticipation for 49 Winchester to take the stage, you could feel the energy building in the room.
From the moment Isaac Gibson stepped on stage, the energy was palpable. The band launched into a career-spanning setlist that showcased their evolution while staying true to their Virginian roots.
The band’s stage presence was authentic and unpretentious. They didn’t rely on flashy visuals or gimmicks—instead, they let the music speak. Gibson frequently addressed the crowd between songs, sharing stories about life in Russell County, the band’s journey, and the meaning behind their lyrics. These moments created a sense of intimacy, making the large venue feel like a small-town gathering.
There was a genuine sense of gratitude and awe from the band. Gibson paused mid-set to reflect on how surreal it felt to be playing a sold-out show in London, far from their Appalachian roots. The crowd responded with warmth and cheers, reinforcing the emotional connection.
Each song was met with enthusiastic singalongs, especially fan favourites like “Annabel” and “Russell County Line”, which closed the encore in spectacular fashion.
The band’s sound was rich and layered, with Bus Shelton’s guitar solos and Noah Patrick’s pedal steel adding emotional depth and texture.
The encore was a highlight of the night, as Wyatt Flores returned to the stage.
This collaboration was a heartfelt moment of camaraderie, underscoring the shared spirit between two generations of Americana artists.
The Roundhouse, with its circular architecture and storied history, provided an intimate yet grand setting. The acoustics were flawless, and the lighting design added drama and warmth to the performance. The crowd—diverse and passionate—responded with unrelenting energy, turning the venue into a sea of voices and swaying bodies.
What made the atmosphere truly special was the emotional authenticity. This wasn’t just a gig—it was a gathering of kindred spirits. Gibson’s heartfelt stories between songs, the band’s visible gratitude, and the audience’s unwavering support created a feedback loop of love and appreciation.
When Wyatt Flores returned for the encore, the crowd erupted. The collaboration felt spontaneous and joyful, like a jam session among old friends. It was a moment of pure musical communion, and the Roundhouse responded with thunderous applause and cheers that echoed long after the final chord.
49 Winchester’s performance at the Roundhouse was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of storytelling, soul, and Southern resilience. With their heartfelt lyrics, dynamic musicianship, and genuine connection to the audience, the band proved they’re not just rising stars—they’re already shining.
And with Wyatt Flores opening the night with such emotional clarity, the future of Americana looks brighter than ever.
The setlist for the night was:
Tulsa
Last Call
Chemistry
Hays, Kansas
555
Annabel
Leavin’ This Holler
Yearnin’ For You
It’s a Shame
Bringing Home the Bacon
Pardon Me
Everlasting Lover
Anchor
Long Hard Life
The Wind
Changes (Black Sabbath cover)
Hillbilly Happy
Encore:
Damn Darlin’ (with Wyatt Flores)
Russel County Line (with Wyatt Flores)
FOLLOW 49 WINCHESTER
FOLLOW WYATT FLORES
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