Live review: Michael Kiwanuka @ The Deaf Institute

Date: Weds 26th October 2011

Words: Michelle Lloyd

For the last few months there has been a piercingly beautiful song that has made me go all goosebumby every time I have heard it. I'm usually all about the big, loud brash guitars, so a jaunt to The Deaf Institute to see the young singer-songwriter responsible for the song was a comparably new experience for me.

Michael Kiwanuka is relatively new on the scene, with two E.P.s to his name and this his first headline tour. However you'd be forgiven for thinking otherwise judging by the large gathering of bodies in the Music Hall. Clearly I wasn't the only one taken with his velvety tones. Expertly chosen support acts We Were Evergreen and Josephine warmed us up beffitingly. The former a vibrant three piece hailing from Paris with sounds echoing Fleet Foxes and Givers, the latter a soulful, strong willed local songstress.

Set-up was minimal, with a focused looking Michael taking to the stage along with bassist Pete and effortlessly launching into 'I'll Get Along'. From the first note it was plain to see there would be no gimmicks tonight, just raw talent. The usual chattering amongst crowd members was distinctly absent; everyone hauntingly silent, eyes fixed on the stage. His honest and sincere lyrics coupled with the rich texture of his voice transcended the room and created a distinct intimacy that is often lacking with similar artists. 

As the set progressed, with graceful and stirring tracks such as recent single 'I'm Getting Ready' and 'Tell Me a Tale',  Michael appeared to grow in confidence and become more appeased, joking with the crowd that he wasn't very good at conversing between songs. He expressed great joy at playing such a glorious venue as The Deaf Institute and despite being a Londoner himself claimed they didn't have anywhere with as much character. He deemed us all very lucky which was met with a fitting "Yes, lucky to have you Michael". Many comparisons, and rightly so, have been made with Bill Withers - and Michael bravely chose to end with one of Wither's lesser known tracks 'I Don't Know', explaining how he was partly the reason he started making music. 

With his laid back approach, sincerity and glaring capability, the future is indeed bright for Michael Kiwanuka. I definitely left knowing that I wouldn't be seeing him in such intimate surroundings again; bigger venues are definitely beckoning. Unfortunately we have to wait until February for his debut album but if forthcoming single 'Home Again' (his encore) is anything to go by it will be well worth the wait.

"One day I hope to make you smile again… one day I hope our paths will cross again" he sings. And I think I speak for the whole audience when I say, the pleasure will indeed be all ours Michael. 

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