Natty @Glee Club (1/11/11)

Natty’s Man Like I album has taken pride of place on my playlist for the longest time, so when I found out he was touring the UK in 2011 I was determined to see the boy jam live.

Gifted with a ticket from my friend Daniella (BIG UP), the gig has been hot on my list of highlights this year. So, when I arrived at the Glee Club I had high expectations. I knew I wasn’t going to be disappointed; Natty’s a true artist, a musical prophet and even if one, single note failed to usher forth from his mouth, it would have been enough just to be in the presence of such an artist.

High praise indeed. But not unwarranted. And, let me tell you, the performance was mesmerising. There was just the right mix of old favourites and new tasters and Natty, he took us on an emotional journey of musical expression that ranged from tender vulnerability, to militant skank out.

There was absolutely nothing contrived about the performance at all. It was almost as if were witnessing a private jam session, each member going somewhere deep and personal whilst playing their part and yet blending with each other perfectly.

I say almost because the connection to the audience was just as powerful as the connection to the song. At one point Natty points out to us, and then back to himself: “I & I.” He was vibing off us just as much as we were off him. That energy, that harmony: it’s what live music is about.

I danced all the negative energy of final-year stress right out of my body and soul. I felt more invigorated when I left the Glee than if I had risen at dawn, mediated and gone for a 3-mile run.

If you get the chance GO. Trussssst me, you’ll love it.

That being said, the new EP is OUT (today), it's on (now) and it’s always, always

Love,