Photo: Chris MacDonald
The usual rolling intro of iconic names we have all grown up hearing our parents play that graces the opening minutes of John Newman’s debut album were noticeably absent in the extended intro for his Brixton Academy performance on Friday.
Whilst anyone who has listened to the heart-racing album will be familiar with the tone, they may have noted the roll call of icons replaced with repeated media mentions of Newman, preparing the adoring fans for his imminent arrival on stage.
One may initially seem sceptical of this self-promotion from such a young artist. It was barely a year ago when he was joining Rudimental on stage during their house-dropping show in Brixton. He’s clearly taken a note from their lead, as there wasn't a body in the house that wasn't infected by his boundless energy and soaring vocals.
Singing along with every rolling hook as he went through his performance, the songs of heartache and heartbreak had the girls weak at the knees. In such a short space of time, he has grown into his role as a performer and taken cues from those around him, engaging the audience and leaving nothing behind.
Below: 12 awesome photos of John Newman live at Brixton Academy
