Manchester Apollo is where legends make a name for themselves with the likes of Robbie Willliams, The Jam and even Joan Baez having played the gold-stricken venue. Tonight was the night for one of the UKs most iconic current songwriters Michael Kiwanuka to join the ranks!
The venue is packed to capacity with a range of different background and ages ready for a night of soul searching and transcendent vocals. J Appiah sweeps the stage, instantly winning over adoration from the crowd. An energy radiates from the stage which is unexpected. Each member of the band is full swing, the drummer pounds away with an addictive smile whilst he drum fills ‘Poison’ by Bell Biv Devoe. The guitarist and bassist bounce of one another creating a whirl wind of sound whilst the singer stands in his debonair attire singing of love and heartbreak before a song about his father brings silence to the room for the first time tonight. Notable songs include ‘Father’, ‘ONE THIRTY AM’ and ‘How Many’.
As the time grows closer, the crowd become brimming with anticipation as the first wisps of incense float through the audience and Michael takes to the stage, which is adorned in lamps and curtains with a slick 70s Soul aesthetic. Kicking off the night with ‘The Rest of Me’, the track showcased the vocal interplay between Michael and his backing singers, capturing the gorgeous harmonisations that characterise the new album 'Small Changes'. With his satiny voice he brings a mellow attitude allowing a carefree nature flow through the crowd. The harmonisations, rich guitars and incense overpower the room with a magical feeling.
All but one song from the record is played, taking the crowd on a sonic journey through the new project, accompanied by stunning visuals. Michael's guitar work glistens on ‘Floating Parade’, complimented by his velvet voice compliments. The tracks have a lucid arrangement, floating into one another seamlessly, creating an immersive and dream-like experience.
More upbeat moments like ‘You ain’t the Problem’ and ‘Black Man in a White World’ were definite highlights, showing Michael knows how to get a crowd dancing as he switched up his mellow ambience for funky guitars and pulsating beats. This performance was proof that Michael Kiwanuka will join the iconic names gone by as a true R&B legend.
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