Jamie Lawson, Kentish Town Forum, gig review: Soulful balladry is just fine as background noise
Though it’s not difficult to see why he was signed by Gingerbread Man Records
Your support helps us to tell the story
My recent work focusing on Latino voters in Arizona has shown me how crucial independent journalism is in giving voice to underrepresented communities.
Your support is what allows us to tell these stories, bringing attention to the issues that are often overlooked. Without your contributions, these voices might not be heard.
Every dollar you give helps us continue to shine a light on these critical issues in the run up to the election and beyond
Eric Garcia
Washington Bureau Chief
There’s an endearing sense of optimism in Jamie Lawson’s music and the unabashed way he bares his soul to an audience.
Unfortunately in his performance at Kentish Town Forum he fails to inspire; the soulful balladry is just fine as background noise, but live Lawson falls short of the earthy, natural charm that his label boss Ed Sheeran possesses.
It’s not difficult to see why he was signed by Gingerbread Man Records: Lawson’s voice and sentiment are not miles away from Sheeran’s idol Damien Rice, and the simple instrumentation accompanied by equally simple lyrics is pleasant enough.
Since his opening slot at the 02 Arena for the definitely-not-broken-up One Direction at the end of 2015, Lawson’s stage persona has improved in leaps and bounds; he cracks some decent jokes and knows when to ignore heckling from the crowd.
The Plymouth-born troubadour has an undeniably pleasing voice that threatens to crack with emotion on “Cold in Ohio”, while “Ahead of Myself” is a gig-saver: Lawson suddenly stands straighter, projects energy into his voice, and the band seems more alert.
And as sickly-sweet as it is, Lawson’s No. 1 track “Wasn’t Expecting That” still manages to hit home in the most sceptical of audience members.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments