Yellow chart toppers Coldplay absolutely sold out the 02 Arena this weekend.
The arena saw almost 20,000 fans gather to watch the seven-time Grammy award winning alternative rock band perform worldwide hits including Viva La Vida, Paradise, The Scientist and my personal favourite When I Ruled The World. The thing that impressed me most about this concert, was the stage production and the band's energy. The set was amazingly vibrant was portrayed the theme of their current album Mylo Xyloto. Bright flashing lights infused with colour made the artwork backdrop the most creative sets I have ever seen!
For every song, the production element stole the moment - there was always something new to look at! Giant brightly coloured balloons descended from the rafters bouncing among the audience, plumes rose from the ground shooting confetti into the air, laser beams, band played on a satellite stage, the lighting rig swayed and shifted, video screens flickered. And then there were those wristbands: Each person was given a wristband as they entered the concert. I thought it was a free souvenir, however, at the touch of a button by the tech guys, each wristband flashed to the rhythm of the song that was playing! Imagine- at any given moment in the dark arena 20,000 multi-coloured lights flash at the beginning of your favourite track! Ahh - I love it! I think that set the group off, because lead singer Chris Martin was drenched with sweat and fell on stage- and who could blame him? He ran up and down from stage to stage, the band moved on a giant X at the centre of the arena where they played the new gem Up In Flames, the classic Don’t Panic and the touchy Us Against The World, down with his face to the keyboard and finally a smash of a guitar! You know how long i've been waiting to see that at a live concert!
What was also quite impressive, although it may be down to my shameful lack of knowledge of the band, is that the other members of the group can also sing and were commendably applauded by the fans!
The festival-like atmosphere that filled the 02 made this the concert of the year!
Last week saw the welcoming of LA rising star Miguel to London’s HMV’s Forum, Kentish Town.
Although Miguel was signed to Jive Records in 2007, his debut album was only released in November 2010, only to be prompted by J Cole’s single All I Want is You.
A year later, he headlines his own gig, supported by the UK’s own CleoSol and Bluey Robinson.I’ve been a fan of CleoSol since her days of performing at iLuvLive, so now it’s great to see her really coming into her own. I really loved the way she saluted Jill Scott’s presence by opening her set to “The Way”, which really complimented her soulful jazz sound. Even though she soared through Free My Mind, it’s a shame her band out-noised her. She definitely increased her fan base that night, but it was apparent that
Bluey Robinson had a much stronger fan-base. Surprisingly, this is the first time I’ve managed to catch Bluey Robinson and I got a warm welcome as he open up with an acoustic version of Luther Vandross’ Never Too Much.
With just him and his guitar man, he also covered Craig David’s Fill Me In and Frank Ocean’s We All Try before performing his own track Show Girl. I love this dude; his sound reminded me of Justin Timberlake at his peak. Understandably, all the girls loved him.
The girls were on absolute heat at this concert as Miguel entered the stage in a grey fitted suit and approached his red-lit mic stand. His energy is very Monae-like! Although his dance moves are questionable (thank God, he’s stagnant in his videos), it is clear to see that he is inspired by Prince and made sure that it was evident in the musical arrangement of his band and his stage production. Although he puts on a great show, this may be the first time I’ve seen a show that does not give stage time to the band, or even have backing vocalists! I was disappointed by this as is this is usually the highlight of a show for me, but admittedly his energy and connection with the crowd pleased his audience – not forgetting his female fans, who were clearly aroused by his various display of “talents” that even Trey Songz would have been shocked at. But evidently, his biggest track Sure Thing is now big enough of a song to carry without having a great display of vocals.
I've only seen this guy a couple times, but he is certified of living Outside the Blog.
Presenting Ready, a reflection of the work he has crafted within the London poetry scene.
Support the poet and storyteller on his one-man journey through internal fantasies and external realities, the album ‘Volume In Silence’ combines honest, detailed storytelling.
Support on the night - Joel Culpepper & Kal Lavelle
Hosts on the night - Critically acclaimed poets, Dean Atta & Deanna Rodger
10 year veteran, Grammy-nominated Eric Roberson graced the Indig02 to reunite once again with his loyal fans. Arguably named as the God-father of Neo Soul, Eric Roberson has consistently produced quality music, ensuring that his fans are never disappointed. As no stranger to the scene, being a writer and vocalist for Musiq Soulchild, Jill Scott and Dwele he was anxious to ignite the stage with his one-night shown at the 02's sister venue, coinciding the release of his 8th album Mister Nice Guy. Starting promptly at 9pm, he opened the show, looking sharp in his suit with Newness and immediately got the crowd excited, filling in for Phonte. He also performed his impressive back catalogue including Been In Love, Dealing, She and my favourite from him thus far, Howard Girls.
I was more than impressed with his innovative 70's, go-go and OutKast sets! He rocked out with his band, and actually tried to dance (looking like someone's dad... #sustained). But, he really enjoyed performing to his loyal fan, taking the time to connect with the audience, and signing autographs after the show. He proved his excellence once more by doing a freestyle and nailing the damn thing by taking random words from the audience. Me and my girl @ri_starc5 enjoyed the hell out of ourselves, no way we were gonna miss this!
More Music, Less Noise presented a brilliant night with full of eclectic live talent, complete with an in-house band and after party.
My girl Emma (@officialmusicjunkie) and I love seeking new talent - it's in our blood, and embedded in our career.
Last night we went to More Music, Less Noise, which was one of the best events i've been to in a long time!
Situated at Adam's St Members Bar, it was the perfect location for a sleek event with a very relaxed vibe.
Unbeknownst to me, I ended up talking with the host of the event, Alim Kamara. Alim is also an hip hop artist from the UK. What attracted me to him was his merchandising.
I tend to be drawn to all sorts of creativity, but I have never been handed a bottle of Poetry!
A bottle!
Sorry, I was intrigued by that!
Anyways, performance-wise, i was very impressed with the set from AKS. He gave a very strong performance and his stage presence was eccentric. The house band complimented his sound and gave an accented soul to his set which very much emphasised the vibe of the night.
I also managed to catch my one of my favourite singers of the moment, Nadine Charles,who I discovered at the Glenn Lewis gig and always makes her performance seem so effortless.
All acts were able to encompass the vibe of the event by providing an acoustic sound that the audience enjoyed.
I personally have never been at a party where Common and Talib Kweli is played in the same mix as old skool funky house, but Less Is More Music made it work, and made it work very well!
Definitely a must-go to event!
This event was brought to you by Less Is More Music, primary organisers and promoters of More Music Less Noise.
For more information on upcoming events, please visit the OnIt! website
That's right peeps! The Canadian soulstar is back after 10 years of being off the scene!
Last year, I was able to meet him for my birthday (seet here!), and promised me he would be back with some promising material.
"What story does a kid from the south side of Chicago have to tell?"
Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr aka Common, (aka, one of the most beautiful men on Earth, aka, my husband.. yes, that's right!) will be releasing his memoirs, to be in shops this week!
The highly respected (and well groomed) rapper/actor will now add 'author' to his title as his first book gets published by Atria Bookas.
The autobiography explores his upbringing in Chicago as well as the relationships closest to him.
Interestingly, the contextually aware artist begins each chapter with a letter to those important people whom have made a print in his life. Thankfully, it also delves into the critically acclaimed performance at the White House, his experiences within social politics and his romantic relationships (bet she's ringing down Tyrone's phone now!).
"I’ve written this book, so that I can show myself as a man in full. That means telling some tough truths, revealing my faults and vulnerabilities. But it also means showing the true strength of my character"
I hope this letter finds you in the place where you are
".willing and ready to progress in your life. I hope this book not only entertains you but also helps you grow in a spirit of openness. I write to you wishing, praying, and sending the best love to you. This is my story, the story of an uncommon life.
In the Spring, I blogged the upcoming Angie Lemar theatre adaptation, the Younger Brothers.(seet here!) The cast have been hard at work and now have produced the trailer for the new series. The Younger Brothers is an adaptation of the successful play written by Angie Lemar. Since it's days of being a radio drama, it has gone on to be the fastest selling show at the Hackney Empire within a 10 year stretch.
This adaptation starts Aaron Fontaine, Elysha Mylton and Travis Jay - Take a likkul look!
Introducing Debbie Aramide: A fresh faced singer/songwriter from North London, determined to make her stamp in the UK’s music scene.
From the age of six she has been crafting her talent, attending theatre school, trained by Tameka Epsom and has become a regular performer at Somerset House, now as 22 year old law graduate, she has performed at LoveBox Festival, opening for artists such as US chart sensation Aloe Blacc and Dionne Bromfield for over 3000 people.
“Trying to balance being a law student and a performer is very difficult, if I’m not in the exam room, I’m in the studio. My passion is always knocking on the door, I’m writing constantly, singing along the road, whenever it comes to me, it comes.”
As a critically acclaimed upcoming artist after the recognition of her self-produced mixtape Breaking Point (2009), Debbie is now preparing to promote her new EP, The Tide. Being influenced by Toni Braxton, Beyonce and Coldplay, Debbie describes her sound as being indie meets soul.
“This EP definitely shows my growth, not just as a person, but as an artist. My first self produced song had more of a pop, soulful house beat; the material on The Tide is an influx of new energy, that’s elements of a soulful/indie vibe. There’s more thought into the lyrics now, a definitely more mature sound from my previous work.”
“I don’t care if you’re offended, you’ll still find it funny!"
Various jobs allow me to make great friendships with a lot of talented people.
One being Ola the Comedian, that I first met at the Choice FM Comedy Club who ended up following me home, or because, as he says, he also lives in the same area... *side eye. Coincidently, four years later, I’m able to walk around the corner and say hi, congratulate him on becoming a fiancé and intrude on his wedding ideas! So to me, he’s just Ola, I don’t know Ola the Comedian to well, so I just had to ask...
What makes you Ola the Comedian and not just a comedian?
Good question, wow! I’m just me. I don’t wanna be ill conceived, you know me! But I’ve learnt that you have to be yourself! You could try to be someone else, but you’re always gonna be beaten doing that. No one can be you, but you! You have to make your material stand out. Some people may think my material may come across smarter than other comedians that they’ve seen, but it depends on the individual; it depends how lively you wanna be, how controversial that you want to be, the key is finding your own unique setting.
So when did you find your own setting and thought, ‘I can do this, not as a hobby, but as a living?’
I had been doing stand up comedy for about a year; at that point, everything was going wrong for me. I failed a year at LSE, I didn’t get any of the internships that I applied for, I tried to get into investment banking and all I got from the employers is that I didn’t give them the impression that it was the field I had passion for. And they were right. What I wanted to do, is the thing I’m doing now. The final push the thought was on my 21st birthday when I had a show, and thought, this is just a small element of what I want to do.
So now you’re a signed, agent- represented comedian, what’s the difference?
You can’t get gassed up on being signed, but it’s great being managed by a company established in the comedy scene that sees your talent and has as much passion as you do, and also, they’re much the wiser – they have the knowledge from working with various, and bigger clients to get me in regular, nationwide sets, whereas in stand-up comedy, you’re doing the same stages for a long time catering to the same people.
So now you’re aspiring to be more mainstream, how would you say it’s different, with regards to the way they receive your material?
Mainstream crowds are more open, they don’t like the same topics being joked about, they want to hear something different – they seem to know more about comedy. It seems that they are more about the content of comedy whether it be politics or current affairs , rather than how loud you can make the crowd roar.
The content of your comedy is acclaimed to be quite controversial, has it ever been more of an issue than what how you first thought it would be?
Not really, I always have an idea about a crowd to try and figure out how the audience may react to certain things. As a stand-up you read the crowd. But I still say it, knowing that this could be the joke that potentially ends the show for me, or the joke that looses them! I do it with the thought that they’re not going to like it or someone will be offended, so if they love it, it’s even better. So now, I don’t care, and I’ve found that when you don’t care, they find it even funnier!
Go on...
I did my joke on my views of homosexuality, based on my Christian beliefs. As it was a joke, there was some ‘funny’ in there, but kit was way too much hassle for what it was worth, because it wasn’t productive, but it was a hot topic issue, not to be taken lightly because it’s easy to be labelled as a homophobic, and that’s nothing I care to associate myself with.
When you writing, do you isolate yourself, or let it come naturally?
Normally it’s natural, but there have been a few instances of a stroke of genius when I have sat and put my head down. They may be two different points from two different days, but I can build on the potential from that.I may find something hilarious, whereas someone else thinks otherwise; it’s all about perspective and potential. Like when I saw a dude on the tube with a pint glass, which may be normal to some, but in my head I’m thinking ‘it’s 7.30pm, how much of an alcoholic are you to have your own glass on your way out?’, and I ran on that.
So you have an agent, do shows nationwide and abroad, have a DVD, what’s next?
More shows across Europe and establish myself as a headliner, rather than an opening act and maybe do more TV, more sketch writing, perhaps some comedy writing.
More TV...?
I did the FHM talent competition on ITV4 ‘Search for a stand up hero, in which I came third and also on Kojo’s Comedy Fun House on MTV Base, and also The Jason Lewis Experience.
I haven’t done any formalised writing but have written with Jason Lewis, which is more of me giving ideas. I met him while working together in retail and learnt that we both had a passion for comedy and therefore was able to bounce ideas and views off each other – it was a meeting of the minds and he asked me to jump on board.
Any one else you’d like to work with? Top two?
Dave Chapelle and Steven Colberg
Favourite film?
Coming to America, without a doubt. The comedy element is great, it’s timeless, and it’s a film that shows Africa in a good light. Eddie Murphy is my favourite actor. And Soul Gro its self is iconic! You know it! Everyone’s sung the song! But why Coming to America?
Are you genuinely questioning my love for Coming to America? From the first scene where he’s in the bathroom, getting cleaned?? That right there is iconic! SEXUAL CHOCOLATE! So if you had a once in a lifetime chance of remaking, or even changing the film in the slightest, what would you change?
Ah man.... I couldn’t! It’s art! I wouldn’t touch it! It would be almost disrespectful – it’s timeless!
Since its establishment in 1994 The Big Chill Festival has been home to multiple locations in the UK before being brought by heavyweights Festival Republic. Throughout its history, The Big Chill has showcased a variety of different music, up-tempo as well as ambient. Recently, live acts and DJs like Norman Jay, Mr Scruff and of late Calvin Harris are regular performers, and more dance music is heard, but the festival also provides a wide range of music from folk and jazz to dub step and jungle to cater to their own ever-growing diverse culture.
In saying this The Big Chill festival has really stepped their game with regards to the acts they have headlining their stage. In the last few years crow
ds from across England merged to see Lily Allen, Isaac Hayes, Aim, Basement Jaxx, Mr Hudson, Plan B, Tinie Tempah and Massive Attack.
This year The Big Chill Festival opens its gates to The Chemical Brothers, Kanye West, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Jessie J, Robert Plant, Crystal Fighters. Calvin Harris, Aloe Blacc, Janelle Monae, Chipmunk, Katy B & Example.
The camping experience was one in itself!
Travelling to Eastnor Castle in Hereforshire and pitching a tent for the first time without a hammer was definitely a skill I learnt (learnt that if you try to use a bottle, the bottle will burst)!
But we got the job done!
By ourselves might I add, there were so many people, tens of thousands of tents and caravans but nobody wanted to help us – imagine that!
BBC Radio 1 and XFM favourites Crystal Fighters performed tracks off their 2010 debut album Star Of Love for their biggest audience to date, and they were sensational live. Their use of txalaparta and the danbolin seemed to be a crowd pleaser with their fuse of electronic guitars.
Also on the main stage was Janelle Monae. Now to be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of hers at all, because to me, all I seem to hear is a lot of shouting, but her vocal control is very impressive with regards to her energy on stage. But yes, she was wearing the same (yes, it may be trademark, but it’s also tired) black and white ensemble with the same hair style and the same shoes as you’ve seen before, so if you’ve seen her once. Don’t do it again – just hit record.
She also done a Michael Jackson cover and did the moonwalk, but even after that, I can’t say she would make me go to YouTube and favourite any of her material.
Also on the Revellers stage was Katy B and Delvin. Devlin amazed the young crowd encouraging them to go “*$£”king mental!” and that they did as the young lyricist performed his bars on the mic while Katy B did a short set and blamed the production team and had little girls crying their eyes out. Wouldn’t you for £75 a ticket??
Now, I’m not going to bore you with all the infinite details about each and every act, because, well, who has time for all that?
But I will say, I used to be a big fan of Jessie J until her second single. Not that it was to be unexpected, but I can’t hear her raw talent in her music anymore. So in addition to that, she made me roll my eyes, when she was escorted to her big velvet chair on stage with a cast on her foot, which seems like it’s been broken forever. Somehow it felt like a big act and a cry for even more attention. That’s just me. Conversely, her vocals were very good, and unlike a lot of the other acts, she outsung her band, so you could close your eyes and just listen without rolling them.
Grammy Award-winning Kayne West, critically acclaimed as the most arrogant man in hip hop, with some other strong candidates was obviously not going to be on time, but that didn’t stop the herd of people bombarding me from my comfortable patch on the floor to being practically under the armpit of somebody that was obviously not utilising the hygiene facilities on the campsite.
Now, I’ve never been a fan of West, but damn, he was actually worth the wait even though we did boo him when he eventually arrived. For you ‘most important show of the summer’ you shouldn’t be an hour late; and I also have reason to believe he was high, read on....
Kayne West had an entourage 75 people, half of which must have been his troop of professional trained contemporary ballet dancers that were incredible from start to finish. I was told by fans that he puts on a good show, but his performance was almost theatrical and far from the dancing I was expecting from your run-of-the-mill rapper.
He started his performance on top of the sound stage on the middle of the park with Power which got the crowd out of control and made them forget he was late (as he said, ‘they say good things come to those who wait, so I’m at least gon’ be an hour late’). Reason being, as he blabbed on to explain, “He’s a perfectionist, just making sure he gives what the fans deserved”.
That he did, he put on a great show, until he started to talk...
... And BOY, can he talk! He literally whined on stage about how the media portrays him, how “I walk down the street, and people look at me like I'm a monster in some way ... like I'm Hitler or some &^%, how award shows be serving him bull (*&^$ as he explains he was conned into making an appearance at an MTV awards show and some babble about wanting to make the same changes to music as Michael Jordan did for sport and blahblahblah, almost begging to the audience in coherent sentences.
Amongst this pleas, he went on the totally rape the auto-tune, and croaked, all throughout Heartless. Which was actually entertaining, after this political broadcast from the man himself...
Aside from this, I have to raise my hands and say that he is a very creative artist and the energy was apparent through his catalogue of hits such as Flashing Lights, Love Lockdown, Through the Wire and Good Life.
However, I would have considered ending the show on Gold Digger or Stronger as these are West biggest UK hits to date. Instead, he just drugged the vibe by going into yet another heart wrenching anecdote about how his ex fiancé went to a party and met Amy Winehouse and playing Back to Black.
Finish.
*that is the end of the article; I thought it would be creative to use my artistic license and end the West Way.
After 13 years, Miss Jackson made her way back to the UK for her Up Close and Personal Tour. The legendary pop singer gave a superb performance of a selection of her number one hits from her amazing back catalogue.
London's Royal Albert Hall became royal grounds as the Multi -platinum award winning superstar served up more than 22 of her global smashes. Male and female fans from all ages left every seat empty as they reminisced to her music on their feet.
She opened up with the 1986 classic Nasty in the tightest white blazer and matching trousers showcasing how incredible her dancing skills were and still are.
Even seven years after that wardrobe mishap, the 45-year-old, was still able to do those iconic dance moves with surprising vocal control.
I mean, it's no secret that she has not got the strongest voice, but a distinctive mezzo soprano was extremely well trained for this tour.
After dedicating the 'Nasty' video to her London fans, Janet stormed onto the stage and straight into a medley of songs from her breakthrough album 'Control'.
Coming to the end of the first half she presented a her show reel of acting appearances, those of which included Diff'rent Strokes, Poetic Justice (with yes, that monologue) and also her recent role in Why Did I Get Married.
Being an ex (and run-down) dancer, I could only envy the talent of what I can only describe as art in movement as I watched the enthusiasm and attention to detail from her team. I sat there in amazement wishing I never gave up, although knowing me; I tried to recreate the moves in my room #EPICFAIL
For that reason, my favourite performance was Rhythm Nation! She had changed into a simple black outfit and flat boots - now that was my cue to get out my seat, coz I knew she was about to throw down some serious dancemoves and her mother! She even took it one step further and blended it with Scream - Absolutely Epic!
Michael's voice echoed through each beat while the music video played on the screen. As you can see, Janet did the song justice as this performance was perhaps the most electrifying of the whole night.
Other favourites were, What's it Gonna Be, which unfortunately, had everyone thinking they were as good as Busta Rhymes, Anytime, Anyplace, and That's the Way Love Goes.
Without a doubt, Janet did the works, and handed it on a plate. Conversely, I was expecting more from the creatives of the show, there were no evevations from the ceilings, no flying above the crowd, not even a clear theme in sight... Just her number ones. I mean, it's Janet Jackson, was I asking for too much?!?
Nonetheless, I can't fault her, she is, in my eyes a legendary entertainer, it's not every day Janet Jackson comes to town!
Now, my views of Michael Jackson's passing may be... let's say unorthodox to say the least, but funnily enough, I could feel him there (... coincidence? I think not)
She dedicated her last performance of Together Again to her late big brother as the confetti fell and the nights came up. A nice sentimental touch, thankfully leaving out a cringe-worthy speech about "Blanket".
I had a fantastic surprise this weekend! I got treated to a wonderful West-Indian meal at Cottons Restaurant and Bar (Islington Branch). Very good value for money, seeing as I was pop-belly, full-of-meat- full afterwards, coz you know me, I need some something dead on my plate to make me feel like I've eaten, I mean, I'm not a rabbit! lol
Focus of this post: Soul-D-Out at Rhum Jun Bar, Angel.
Every second Saturday of the month Rhum bar presents this small bar with the welcoming sound of acoustic and original UK music. NO, not just "neo-soul"
The venue it's self is pleasant, but also selective in it's simplicity. The lighting was just enough to set the tone of the night, intimate table spaces and comfortable sofas. The bar is quite small, but Happy Hour always makes up for it!
The house bands at these events are always talented and makes you appreciate the creative process behind the piece and blahblahblah.. ANYWAY> The acts:-
Atlanta Smith
Hailing from Pecknarm and bringing a pleasant start to the evening. As harsh as it sounds, it was just that, I wouldn't go out and pay for background music. However she did have a song called Closer, which I can't find on YouTube, which had a Black Coffe- soulful-house sound to it. Certified fan, of that track.
Talking of fans, the room seemed to become increasingly excited about Ayisha Renne. Now, aside from her undeniable upkeep and shoicidal footwear, this girl had a voice. I know I say this too often, but her voice had a very earth-toned depth to it, which was highlighted in her cover of Cam'ron song, Daydreamin'. She's been about for a hot minute now, bringing and leaving with a lot of the crowd, more fool them coz they missed, who I believe was the highlight of all acts. No! Not Lifford that sung Please Dont Turn Me On with Artful Dodger.
No. no *wags finger*
IN'SGHT
The duo graduates from the BRIT school gave the vocal performance of the night - HANDS DOWN.
Their harmonies created timeless and emotive melodies that the Blind Recognition house band was able to accentuate with ease. Performing original material, their combination of R&B, soul,
acoustic and commercial pop.They also covered Adele's Someone Like You and gave it a soulful and harmonic sound. These guys harmonies give me goosebumps.
They're no BoyzIIMen or N Sync, but this is the best harmonies i've heard as far as duos go.
But don't take my word for it, see for yourself....
So, I'm gonna check out their mixtape on this site
And a give you a cover, coz i'm nice like that ;) (But the kitchen... Don't blame me!)
As you know, I can't stay in my house every week! I need to find places to go! So after numerous BBM broadcast messages, I found myself at the last night of Dwele's European Tour! Yay me!
To be honest, i'm not a Dwele enthusiast, as I think all of his ishk sounds very similar and almost monotonous, but he did rock the crowd!
I didn't arrive early enough to catch the opening act, because, well... I couldn't be bothered! I got there just in time to catch the Grammy nominated star hit the stage... in the same outfit he wore the show promotion material! Haha!
I don't think he cared though, as he strutted through the crowd and onto the stage to Kayne West's Power. After his second entrance, as he was not impressed with his first reception, he made sure that he conversed with the crowd, asked them their name, serenaded a lil'!
Admittedly, as good as he was, I was disappointed that he didn't perform Travellin' Girl or Weekend Love, because, to me, they were turning points in his career. Nonetheless, I was enthused by the energy that he and his band acquired throughout the show. His key player has to be the most eccentric, dread wearing and excitable keyboard player I have ever experienced in my 5 years of music journalism! I am so sure than if that keyboard was not attached to the stand, he would have been doing backflips and playing upside down. I'm sure I got a whiff of dread in my eye, and I was by the back, no need for HD!
He rocked the mic with favourites, I Think I Love You, Cheating and Find a Way. But also reminded us of what brought us to the venue in the first place. Namely in the acoustic arrangements in my personal favourite Open Your Eyes (original by Bobby Cadwell, and also used for the hook in Common's The Light), and his tributes to Frankie Beverly and the late Nate Dogg.
He also performed tracks from his current album W.ANTS. W.ORLD. W.OMEN (W.W.W). Namely his album consisting of his alter ego his world documenting and his love for Women, because we can't forget that "baby making, bubble bath and audio hallmark card type of music."
Now, you know me - I can't not get my piece in! In closing the show, he swooned through the audience, serenading the ladies. Naturally, he came in my path, and I managed to give Dwele a little dance while he performed What's Not To Love.
It wasn't as bad as the Chris Brown Fiasco in 2008, but let's not go there!
In 2006, LeMar produced The Brothers which was showcased in the Hackney Theatre and became the fastest selling show and box office sell out since the theatre's showing of Hamlet. Four years forward, aspiring director Natasha Cox and her team amended the script and re-crafted the piece, birthing The Younger Brothers.
This adaptation, to be set in East London University, as opposed to East London, Docklands, follows the lives of three young men, finding themselves in love, in problems and in trouble, coupled with betrayal and deceit.
Aaron Fontaine, Mikel Ameen and Travis Jay were the chosen actors that were put forward to personalise characters previously played by Chuky Venice, MC Harvey and Jason Barrett. This allowed the actors, to erase the stigmas attached to the previous character and give them the creative license to drive in another direction of the play. Alongside starred upcoming, award-winning actresses Kyla Frye, Elizabeth Kareklas, Annabell Nartey and Elysha Myton.
As this was a press reading, there was no elaborate staging, effective use of lighting or levels used. This was simply a showcase of the beginning works of a creative piece that was out, birthing potential. The intimate crowd consisted of editors, funders, organisation leaders and close family and friends of those taking part.
Usually, a press reading is, quite literally, the actors reading from the script to give the audience a brief overview of the concept; surprisingly however, regardless of six days rehearsals, the Thespians had down-pacted their characters so much, they were able, not not only learn the script, but unlearn, revise and rebirth the characters.
"It took a while for me to make this character my own" explains Travis Jay, "watching the production of the original so many times, I had already known my lines , by observation alone, so learning wasn't the hard part, it was learning them for myself and creating my own character, rather than producing what had already been done, was the hard part."
Throughout the viewing, this was evident. The cast has personalized their characters very well through, what is considered as a very short time of character development. During my own studies of Drama and Theatrical studies, being an actor is not just being able to remember lines and attach a feeling. It's about being able to make fiction a reality. (I'm about to go into theatre mode, so i'll stop here about that lol)
"Im nothing like my character, she was her own person, I had to learn her, but her in different situations, know her background, from her heritage, what type of education she had, how her past relationships had an effect on the one that you can see in the play - My job is to make sure that this information comes across through my character".
That it did! Mylton's character, Sonia, had to be my favourite, and she was probably my favourite actress of the night! Her tone of voice was on point, her centre of energy was apparent and rightly so, Sonia was someone that everybody knew. You know that person who just can't sense the tone, doesn't know how to talk in delicate situations? - Yup!
As I said, it wasn't a full blown theatre performance, but with six well, trained actors potential is brought from the power of the pen.
Angie Le Mar stood proud as she examined her work, taken into someone else's hand. "It took a lot of trust, but sometimes, that's what it takes. Watching that made me feel like Shakespeare". I'm very proud".
The Younger Brothers is due to be in full production and on tour in the summer. Watch this space! You cant see the play just yet, but you know how I like to tease:
Being a music journalist, I've learnt to appreciate all types of music. So, contrary to some ignorant beliefs, I am in more than just bashment, R&B and Rap *shock horror*
Certain moods drive me to different genres, so when I’m walking home from work and wanna make noise tryna reach the high notes when walking through the subway, the Script is usually the first on my playlist! Admittedly, I wasn't hooked when they first came on the scene withWe Cryin 2008, because, to be honest, it was a little bland, and it took longer than a while for the song to grow on me. However towards the end of the year The Script became more than just that-other-Irish-band, they had coined their mark in indie music by ending their year on a high and becoming an award winning success.
So naturally, going where the music takes me, I go to my box at the 02 Arena, just as the Script got on stage.
The atmosphere in the 02 was absolutely electric! Fans had banners from pillar to post, face painting, and patriotic symbols - because we know London probably has the same amount of Irish citizens as Ireland!
Live Like We're Dyingopened up the show and had the crowd going wild - flags flying, girls screaming and Guinness' opening!
Lead singer, Danny O'Donoghue made sure he made a real connection with his audience. Talking about his inspirations to write particular songs, which ones meant the most to him, what he was going through when we wroteBefore the Worst. All of which really explained the tone of the album.
He was very engaging; he got into the crowd, as far as security would let him, taking phones and cameras so his fans could get the best footage. Personally, as great as it was, I was expecting more of a shout-the-words-with-me, air-guitar-solo and guitar smashing performance! I wanted to shout the words at the top of my lungs and sing along to songs I loved, with words I didn't know, with my arms wrapped around a strangers shoulders! But I guess The Script are too cool for that!
The best part of the show, ironically, contained the most annoying climax.
I understand the need to build up the anticipation of their final performance of the night, but whoever made up the unwritten rule that acts should pretend go off stage, only to come back on again, should be stoned! It creates an anti climax, and for anyone over 21 years old, it is slightly roll-my-eyes, do-they-still-do-this?moment.
As I was in the box, my camera footage isn't as great as it could be (- well, that and maybe the cider that I had in the other hand). But it shows the artistic integrity of the atmosphere, and as a journalist, and not a photographer, this is what we try to create.
Long before Destiny's Child and 702, we had TLC, Total and SWV. When I found out that they were coming to town for a few nights, I was unsure whether if I wanted to go. Being an 80's baby, 90's Kid, I grew up listening to 90's R&B and I still stand and say that the era was the turning point of R&B. I remember being, like, 8years old, watching my sister and her friends getting ready to go out. I would sit on the end of her bed while she got glammed up with Mary Jane girls and Jodeci playing in the background. Not forgetting the times when my brother would have a party in the house and I wouldn’t be allowed to join in the fun, yet watch from the top of the stairs... yeah, good times! I didn't want to taint the fond memories that their music brought, but SWV knew that had to bring the heat, and they put that Ingid02 on FIRE!
Courtesy of Chris Philips, I anxiously, I sat with him and my girl from Choice FM (shout out to my girl Zorica! Check her views on the concert on her blog waiting for one of the greatest girl groups of the 90's to grace the stage. The were welcomed with a roar of applause from eager, loyal fans as they entered and were very thankful for each and every person that came out to support them after 18years. Now obviously, they didn't come out in their tight PVC attire the big hoop earrings that they are remembered for, nonetheless they looked stunning in their sequined leggings and flattering cat suits! Bearing in mind, it has been 18years and women’s body fluxuates in a matter of weeks; they still looked good- you can’t expect everyone to be able to stay the same size they were almost two decades ago! They opened the show with their debut track from 1992 Right Here. Which lead them to one have one of the longest running number-one R&B singles of 1993.
The performance of their 2nd song So Into You automatically had the audience on their feet providing an aura of a 9o's party. Everybody with seated tickets was out of their seats, out of their rows, in the isles, whippin' their hair along with Lelee, grown women screaming and reminiscing on their throwback days. The way they interacted with the audience was impeccable
One of the highlights of the show was when they selected genuine members from the audience and asked to join them on stage. A particular young guy was celebrating his birthday, gushingly, he took centre stage and was serenaded an SWV special of Happy Birthday. Unknowingly, sitting behind me was Vula. Vula opened up for Musiq SoulChild when I reviewed his gig here, and was also selected to be on stage with the girls and sing Weak. Getting as much love as the act, the three fans made us cheer, laugh, singing along and loving every minute.
They performed all of their biggest hits and Coko also did a LaBelle cover of If Only You Knew How Much I Loved You which crowned her as a young Pattie. Shows like these don’t always go according to time, especially when the host keeps bringing the acts back on stage - Not that I’m complaining now! But Faith Evans appeared (just as my battery decided to take a chill pill), and kept the show moving! She too, thanked her loyal fans for their continuing support, standing in the crowd with 'I Love Faith' T-shirts, and said he was surprised to come to London because she was unsure that people remembered who she was. She soon reminded them that the Grammy Award winner deserved her title as she performed tracks like You Gets No Love, Can't Believe, As Soon As I Get Hone, Love Like This Before and a funk version of Burning Up. Oh yes, she went to TOWN on that song! Throwing her towel down in passion-She worked the stage until her clothes were literally drenched in sweat!
My favourite performance from her was Never Let You Go. She delivered that song with so much emotion, on her couching-tiger-hidden-dragon ishk! Excuse my language, but this girl SAAAANG from the crack of her ass with that tune! Her adlibs were on point, her stage presence was précis and you would feel every word she was singing was from raw unadulterated emotion. It’s a shame my battery conked out before I could capture it, because that too, was one of the highlights of the show. Faith Evans is an artist that has no shame about the negativity that comes her way, being in the industry. Her relationship with Biggie was depicted in the NotoriousFilm and she was highly blamed for her husbands’ unresolved drive-by death and her involvement in the EastCoast-WestCoast rap rivalry. As most artists do, they project their pain. When she sang Again, she gives all her praises to God for everything that she has been through and she wouldn’t change a thing. That to me was the most touching part of the concert. I sat back on my chair and allowed myself to be taken into the lyrics that were being sung.
"In ATL I caught a case And the media tried to say I had a habit I couldn’t manage and I am throwing my life away ..... If I had to do it all again I wouldn’t take away the rain Cuz I know it made me who I am If I had to do it all again I’ve learn so much from my mistakes that’s how I know He's watching me" Because of these reasons, I would have to quote Faith Evans and SWV as having the best concert that i've seen this year. Shout out to Chris Philips for sharing his tickets with me, so much love!
