On the final stop of their North American and European Isotope tour, brother and sister musical duo Wasia Project performed at the O2 Academy on the 20th of November 2024.

Made up of siblings Olivia Hardy and William Gao, Wasia Project is already making waves in the music industry with its fusion of alt-pop, jazz and classical music. First formed in 2019, Wasia Project has received increased attention and followership since pianist and vocalist William Gao rose to fame starring in Netflix teen drama Heartstopper as Tao Xu. Wasia Project’s song ‘Ur So Pretty’ from their first EP how can I pretend? was also featured in the series’ second season finale, bringing the band to a new audience.

Having performed as support acts for acclaimed artists such as Laufey and Tom Odell, Wasia Project have carved out a distinct space in the indie-pop, alternative music scene and have been highlighted by Rolling Stone Magazine and The Guardian as a musical act to watch out for. Following their previous headline performance at the O2 Institute in 2023, Wasia Project returned to the city in a larger venue with near-full capacity. Despite the bigger space, the duo retained a close intimacy with their audience and showcased their innovative, exciting musical artistry.

Entering the venue, the crowd who had braved the cold and snow was humming with excitement and anticipation. Fans were greeted by opening act Hohnen Ford who performed songs from her latest 2024 EP I Wish I Had a God such as ‘Another Lifetime’, ‘Skin Deep’ and concluded with her 2022 single ‘Infinity.’ Ford’s piano-driven ballads and dreamy, soft vocals acted as the perfect precursor to Wasia Project’s set with its musical and lyrical synergy. As final mic checks for Wasia Project were completed, fans eagerly peered across the room waiting for the duo and their band to enter the stage. The stage set-up was simple and stripped back, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere which would last throughout the performance.

Hardy and Gao entered the stage to enthusiastic cheering and applause. While it may be expected because of Gao’s fame, he would be the central focus point of the performance, Hardy shone as the lead vocalist, guitarist and performer. The opening song ‘Is this what love is?’ demonstrates Hardy’s strong stage presence, moving across the space and displaying her ability to reach challenging high notes with ease and flair. The duo’s excitement and readiness to perform was palpable as Hardy and Gao addressed the crowd, showing how they have been moved by the level of fan support and the scale of their recent achievements.

‘Is this what love is?’ transitioned into the haunting ‘My Lover is Sleeping’ bathed in red light, speculating on a romantic partner’s inaccessible thoughts and feelings. This was followed by the more lively, energetic ‘Petals on The Moon’ which got fans singing and dancing along to the jazzy, saxophone-led melody.

The iconic opening piano section from ‘Ur So Pretty’ filled the venue with euphoric excitement and Hardy’s vocals were echoed by the crowd’s heartfelt rendition of the signature chorus ‘you’re so pretty/ when you smile it kills me’. Hardy and Gao expressed the importance of the song and the joy it brought them to perform it at every show. There was a special surprise when opening act Hohnen Ford rejoined the stage for a slowed down cover of Celeste’s ‘A Little Love’ to beckon in some festive spirit. Ford, Hardy and Gao’s beautifully delivered harmonies marked a tender moment in the setlist. Wasia Project’s other cover of the night, ‘Smooth Operator’ by Sade, invited crowd participation. Gao and Hardy split fans into two sections and encouraged them to sing, adding an interactive element to the show which strengthened the close-knit bond between audience and performers.

The set concluded with ‘Tell Me Lies (fin)’ before moving into the encore of ‘Misfit Biscuit’ and ‘Impossible’. Drummer Luca Wade’s dynamic solo in the finale brought the show to a stunning, satisfying conclusion.

Along with many Wasia Project fans, I first discovered the musical duo thanks to watching and loving Heartstopper and ‘ur so pretty’. Attending the final stop on the Isotope tour, I discovered the joys of seeing Wasia Project live. Their poignant lyrics and unique blending of music genres is elevated on stage with a stirring, thrilling performance. Wasia Project have demonstrated their talent in two impressive EPs and headlining tours. I am excited to see what they can do in a full album in the near future.

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