Photo: WENN
Both of James Blake’s Mercury nominated albums are as neat and tidy as his own hair. Crystal-clear and very intimate, hearing Blake’s songs in the multistoried Shepherd’s Bush Empire is a different experience entirely, but certainly not in a bad way.
Perhaps what is most entertaining about Blake’s first of two sold-out appearances at Shepherd’s Bush Empire, was the the translation of a real 'headphones album' on to the stage - loud and visceral with strobe lights to boot, and drum and bass which makes the whole venue shake. That’s when you realise why James Blake has been nominated for the Mercury for a second time: this music is exciting, versatile and inventive.
Yet none of his music's inimatable personability is lost in his live show. Whilst more volatile and energetic post-dubstep tracks such as ‘CMYK’ and ‘Limit To Your Love’ unite the crowd to pop up and down in unison, there are moments where you could easily say half of the audience might as well be in their own bedroom, wholly engaging with the songs in their own individual manner and it becomes apparent that Blake’s albums have most definitely made an emotional impact on a countless number of listeners.
As he sits on stage tinkering at his keyboard and other contraptions, it’s clear that the man knows how to produce a killer song. But what’s really the cherry on top is his silky smooth and simultaneously robust yet tender voice which truly makes these tracks strike a chord with you.
At such a young age, Blake is able to demonstrate a deep, profound understanding of his own music, something that’s quite magnificent to watch on stage.
James Blake returns to Shepherd's Bush to play a second sold-out show tonight. For more information visit Gigwise gig tickets.
