Michael Kiwanuka, Symphony Hall, Birmingham - review
On a day that saw the region drenched in a red hue, soul sensation Michael Kiwanuka stole the hearts of a packed Symphony Hall.
Touring in support of his latest album Love & Hate, released in 2016 and reaching number one on the UK album chart, the English soul musician brought his latest tour to Birmingham with a sold out show last night.
Performing songs from his latest album as well as his Mercury prize nominated debut Home Again, the singer performed a stylish and artistically well though out show suiting the grand nature of the venue.
Tracks such as Black Man in A White World and One More Night provided the more upbeat moments of the evening, however notable absences from the set list such as Home Again and I’m Getting Ready was disappointing for more casual fans such as myself.
After winning the BBC Sound of 2012 poll as a solo artist, Kiwanuka’s show has now grown into something far beyond being just a voice and a guitar. Backed by a large band and a fantastic light show, artistically the show was fantastic however atmospherically the audience were rather subdued in their response. Whether due to pacing issues in the tracks played or just the nature of the audience that Kiwanuka attracts I couldn’t be sure.
What is for sure however is that what Kiwanuka produces in the live environment is far beyond appealing to casual fans wanting to hear the hits, but in fact producing an hour and a half show that showcases his talents as a timeless artist and one of the best.
