Photo: James Berry
As Anna Calvi stands centre stage, bathed in a light that matches her blood red shirt to her lips you'd imagine she was the most confident woman in the world – and then she speaks. Barely even a whisper registers and it is clear to all that she is far from the attention seeking, limelight hog many performers can come across as.
What makes this all the more staggering is that when she eventually sings, as she does so pitch perfectly on songs such as 'Desire' or 'The Devil', even the bravest stuntman would struggle to jump the chasm between Calvi's shy personality and her epic performance. Each song performed tonight comes from her self titled debut, bar cover versions of Elvis Presley and Edith Piaf, with each track squeezed of every last drop of drama and passion possible. 'Blackout' goes from a canter to a gallop with help from Anna's excellent drummer and the addition help of a multi-instrumentalist whilst the aforementioned Elvis cover sees 'Surrender' given a haunted baroque makeover.
Though Calvi's voice impresses, it is her guitar work that leaves an indelible impression tonight. Whilst her singing ability is indisputable, often what Calvi does feels like a front with emotions merely tapping at the sheet of Perspex between the stage and the crowd. When the guitar is used to full extent however, that barrier is smashed and Calvi is able to truly emote, expressing herself much more tacitly. The instrumental breakdown in 'Love Won't Be Leaving' is as devastating as anything you are likely to see or hear this year.
Though it can be hard to connect with Anna Calvi, she feels too other worldly to be human almost, it is impossible not to admire her. With a stunning debut album and an unmissable live show in her arsenal, there are few more essential performers in the country right now than her.
Anna Calvi - live photos
