Michael Kiwanuka - Kazimier, Liverpool - 19th February 2012

Wow.

I am in complete awe.

Just as I thought the gigs I have been to already couldn't be topped.

Last night was bloody fantastic.

Michael Kiwanuka - Kazimier, Liverpool - 19th February 2012

With a support act like the Staves, this sold out show was bound to be good.

Yet the venue was something else.

I have never experienced such a idyllic and atmospheric venue. A gasp of excitement and anticipation as soon as I walked into the place, I knew I was in for a treat. 

The moment I walked through the narrow entrance I was intrigued, dim lighting and retro ornaments as well as a vintage style ticket booth, at last, my kind of venue.

The main area was exactly how I hoped and dreamed it would be, infact slightly more. 

It's not often you get the experience to see such a well acclaimed artist singing in the likes of someones living room, this was the closest thing. I felt like I had been time warped back to the 1960's. An old English Cider was a must, inked with a motorcycle stamp across my hand, it felt the right thing to do. 

Infact, considering we had to queue a little to gain entry, the place seemed quiet - that was until I looked up and saw several people sat on tables along the balcony. We opted for a seat within close proximity of the stage, this was definitely a must for me as I wanted to savor every moment of tonight. 

Opportunities like this don't come around very often. 

As 'The Staves' took to the stage, the Kazimier seemed already beyond its full capacity. 

The three sisters performed a wonderful variety of songs from their current EP's 'Mexico' and 'Live at Cecil Sharp House' including a sensational cover of Joan Baez' 1960's 'Silver Dagger' leaving the audience enthralled.

Eagerly awaiting the presence of the man of the moment, Michael Kiwanuka.

Throughout, Michael captivated the audience with his tender yet powerful, husky tones.

As the crowd watched on intently, believing the hype surrounding this humble artist, yet to release his debut album.

Accompanied with a band, including percussion, guitar and keyboard, there was a great jazzy vibe however, it was when the band left, Michael seemed at ease, left to do what he does best, one man and his guitar. The spotlight fell on him, capturing the true excellence, reminiscent of the stunning performance which first saw me, and many others captivated during Live with Jools Holland. 

There were many of these moments, as I stood in complete awe. However, the upbeat sound of 'Tell Me A Tale' really portrayed that passionate feel and got the crowd moving. It was also encouraging to see Michael moving out of his comfort zone when his band returned, to give a fun, refreshing and soulful performance.

Not only I, but as I looked around, the open eyes and contentment of the crowd added to this truly special evening full of fresh young talent. The audience were able to lift this little venue and show their gratitude towards the end of Michael's performance as he left the stage, thanking his fans for a great show. Following in true Liverpoodlian fashion, chanting and feet stomping resulted in Michael returning to stage to deliver two classic covers.

Responding in the vocal ability and maturity to perform a brilliant take on Bill Withers 'I Don't Know' and ending with Hendrix 'Maybe There Is Love'.

I can't help but feel the one thing that maybe missing from this performance however, is the confidence to believe in his new found fame. That said, I take great pleasure and satisfaction from a gig of this calibre, to watch an artist so humble and kind, delivering a truly sensational set. 

Barely into 2012 and I find myself wondering what more can top this gig, already up there as one of the best.

The best bits: 

The Venue - Wonderfully intimate and the quirky setting for such a soulful yet chilled out gig. 

The atmosphere - Apart from the odd heckle, the crowd listened intently throughout allowing Michael to truly captivate and deliver under the spotlight.

The support act - 'The Staves', need I say more - expect big things, these girls really are bloody fantastic and after chatting to them, I can report - lovely girls too!

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