Lianne La Havas - LIVE AT LEEDS - 5th May 2012

Wow.

Now, this year I have been to some pretty damn excellent gigs including the likes of The Staves, Michael Kiwanuka, Ben Howard, The Civil Wars, the list continues however, tonight was something special.

I am left completely in awe. A talent so rich. A talent so well deserved and truly sensational.

There's no better way to escape the depths of University work before deadline day than to disappear downstairs and catch a glimpse of this budding artist. I introduce to you Lianne La Havas.

La Havas was born to a Greek father and Jamaican mother, citing her parents' diverse musical tastes as having the biggest influence on her music.

Having provided backing vocals for the likes of Paloma Faith and Everything Everything, Lianne was spotted following the release of her own material by Black Cab Sessions and French website La Blogotheque. However, it was her appearance on Jools Holland in October that saw the young singer burst into the spotlight and rightly so, won La Havas the highly acclaimed and prestigious support slot, touring with Bon Iver.

Ever since the day I heard Everything Everything in the live lounge for Radio 1, I knew Lianne La Havas was going to be one to keep in my radar. Having provided backing vocals along with a favourite of mine, Sunday Girl - I knew this girl had much more to give and today, I was humbled to be given the opportunity to experience a live show.

Upon arrival, the venue, with a capacity of 1100 was barely half full. I quickly made my way to the front and took position, I knew this was a show not to be missed. Seems others got the idea and by the time Lianne took to the stage, the place was pretty darn full. 

Opening the set, La Havas looked humble, accompanied by just a guitar and that voice. That superb, smoky voice, an instrument in itself. Sparkling under the spotlight, looking the part with her statement lopsided bun, the 22 year old hailing from South London quietly begun and within minutes had cast the crowd under her spell- captivated, listening intently to undoubtedly the future of soul infused folk. 

Upon the final pluck of the two opening songs, the crowd showed admiration and her reception was filled with Leeds famous whistles and chants. Lifting her arms in the air and shouting "Hello Leeds" visibly eases the singer, before she is joined by a trio of handsome young men - on keys, bass and drums.

Grinning into her next song, title track 'Forget' from her second EP - La Havas enthralls the audience with an icy guitar solo before the addition of a backing drumming beat. Especially refreshing was to see a somewhat amazement at the crowd response, as James, on keys signaled across the stage. Accompanied with a smile, the band joined La Havas as her voice crescendos into eruption for the chorus. This is where Lianne La Havas looks completely at ease, as does the audience, moving to the rhythmic, jazzy vibes of the band, yet still all eyes are fixed on the exceptional vocal ability of this young artist.

Confident, La Havas takes time to talk to the crowd, sipping a cider and raising a toast, familiarising herself with the LEEDS, LEEDS, LEEDS chants met by the audience before asking if she can take a photo, to remember this night for the rest of her life.

All eyes fall on centre stage once more, with the band departing for a solo rendition of the sublime 'Tease Me' allowing La Havas to display her sheer talent and contentment on stage. 

The arrival of 'Age' finds a playful La Havas participating with the audience through the lyrical

description of a relationship with an older man, old enough to be her father. Gaining extra recognition for the addition of Leeds in the third verse, 'When in Leeds, we landed our first kiss'. It was clear to see the singers delight as she watched listeners lip-sync the lyrics, with a smile blazen across her face for the duration.

Two of the band members return, with the addition of a cajon impeccably slapped to create a unique backing to relatively new track, 'Empty'. This beautiful and emotional song, for me was the one. Perfectly knitted together, in my opinion, the best of Lianne La Havas. 

A mainly seamless first guitar change leads La Havas into another crowd favourite, 'Final Form'.

As an audience member it really is refreshing and truly special when an artist shows their gratitude to the audience for supporting their music. La Havas did just that, "This is too much - I love you all genuinely."

Another guitar change introduces the arrival of title track 'Lost & Found' from her debut EP, with addition of a double bass, keys and a simple drumming beat. A truly soulful showcase of La Havas' guitar abilities and vocal range.

Having thanked the crowd once more, La Havas was clearly blown away by the reaction, admitting she was speechless as she attempted to close the set with one last song. The crowd clearly hadn't worn tired of this sensational artist and several shouts and pleads were met as she agreed to play two more songs to end the night.

Putting down her guitar, La Havas carried 'Gone' with beauty, confidence and thanks, displaying talents way beyond her years. Coming to the end, La Havas had clearly gained highly deserved recognition amongst the crowd, with a voice coming second best to Adele. 

"Guys come on. Thank you so much. You're going to make me cry".

A glowing light shone on the crowd clapping loudly, as La Havas stood, taking in the atmosphere of this exceptionally received headline set. 

"How do you fancy being in my next pop video? I think I already know the answer to this question but I will ask it anyway, Leeds, is your love big enough? This is for you."

The set concludes with title track off the debut album, expected 9th July 2012 - 'Is Your Love Big Enough'. The upbeat song cementing many views, including mine that La Havas is certainly the one to watch. 

I must add this as I just cannot stop listening and feel the urge to shout from the rooftops about it, enjoy .