The setting for the former Longpigs and Pulp guitarist-turned Brit award and Mercury prize-nominated solo artist is perfect. Performing as part of Guy Garvey’s Meltdown festival on London’s Southbank, the acoustics of The Royal Festival Hall play right into the double denim-clad crooner’s hands.
Opening proceedings with ‘Which Way,’ it appears that Hawley does not need any warming up. His weathered voice is so achingly beautiful that it pulls on every fibre of your being and the appreciative and mesmerised crowd greet the occasion with the respect it deserves.
‘Tonight the Streets Are Ours’ follows and is beautifully preceded by a touching tribute to the late Yorkshire MP Jo Cox, with Hawley declaring “tonight Matthew, the streets are still ours.” A fitting song for an evening of reflection as Hawley and his troupe effortlessly swoon their way through a powerful back catalogue.
There are no frills or spills during the 90 minute set. A journey through the tirelessly romantic numbers Hawley is perhaps famed for, are injected by powerful moments of unashamed rock ‘n’ roll. The title track from his 2012 album Standing At The Sky's Edge, ‘Down in the Woods’ and the rumble of recent single ‘Heart of Oak’ being the stand outs.
His northern wit and charm is ever present, and as the night draws to a close during the encore he explains “I wrote this next song [What Love Means] the day my daughter left home, and although nothing really prepares you for that as a parent I thought thank fuck for that!”
An impressive finale comes in the form of the ferocious number 'The Ocean.' An intense, almost hypnotic, breakdown is a real showcase into the talent of not just Hawley but his exceptionally talented band-mates who make the intoxicating live show one to remember.
Richard Hawley's setlist was:
Which Way
Tonight the Streets Are Ours
Standing at the Sky's Edge
I Still Want You
Leave Your Body Behind You
Sometimes I Feel
Open Up Your Door
Tuesday pm
Time Will Bring You Winter
Down in the Woods
Don't Stare at the Sun
Heart of Oak
There's a Storm Comin'
Encore:
Coles Corner
What Love Means
The Ocean
.jpg)
