#ESPspotlight Review: StreetFest, Shoreditch, 5th May

If there was one thing that Radio 1's Hackney Weekend taught me, it's that I, unequivocally, do not do mud. Also, that you should never engage in any mass travel plans organised by the BBC - but that's a whole other saga. On the plus side, I do love me some Music, Fashion and Live Art; so if someone could just take those, keep them outdoors, but switch out the hideous 'underfoot goo', for some good old, filthy concrete (and indoor plumbing - I mean come on, PortaPotties? Why would anyone be a fan); then I'd just be as happy as a pig in...well, their favourite natural exfoliant. That's why when I learned about 'StreetFest', the literal abbreviation of a festive affair on the streets of East, from the one and only DJ Nikki Beatnik, I made it my life's mission to attend.

Sunday, 5th May found me Shoreditch-bound, with my lovely photog-friend Allie Suwanrumpha (regular readers may recall, she was responsible for the amazing visuals in Part 2 of February's London Fashion Week special). Both newbies to the Radiator PR event; neither of us were prepared for the staggering generic, and cultural mix in the unfamiliar backstreets of East London's creative mecca. Greeted by live street art on entry, the huge murals created in front of our very eyes certainly put paid to any critic who would dare question the true artistry in graffiti. Eventually enticed away by the cheers and anxious gasps of the BMX Demo stage, it was impossible not to raise your heart rate and blood pressure, in the face of wheel trickery performed by people who clearly enjoyed the allure of near-death behaviour.

Having never witnessed a show of this kind in the flesh before, I can tell you that these gents were either very brave, or very mad for even attempting the daredevil stunts that defied gravity and gave new meaning to the term 'raising the bar'...

The nearby Unsigned Stage drew it's own respectable amount of foot traffic. I arrived just in time to catch a mix of live music and spoken word from the talented likes of singer Kayla Layton and conscious poet Chozen. Both delivered raw performances that revived my love of acoustic sets, and my annoyance at those who cannot respect them, or the dying art of common courtesy, by remaining quiet for the short duration of a set or, at the very least, removing yourself from the environment if the task of shutting up while artists perform, proves too taxing.

With thanks to @UrbanRevivalLDN for the
Blue Wooden Bead Bracelet!

To the markets next, and the majority of stalls offered what you might expect from the event; the latest in 'Hoody Chic'; with sweatshirts, tees and skateboards, etc. A few that stood out from the rest though, included wooden accessories label, Urban Revival London, where the cheekily charming Jey Flash talked a very good game about a label I'm sure you'll be seeing and hearing more from shortly - before treating me to a little bit of beaded schwag in the favourite colour of Yours Truly...

From the accessory ambassadors of the event to fashion; apparel label LabSolja Clothing were a fascinating find. The class, intelligence and positivity in their motivation-inspired designs set out to make forward-thinking 'fashionable'; changing the implied connotations of 'hoody' and tee-shirt fashionistas, by changing the message that they promote. VERY interesting approach!

Speaking of messages, the most important of the day had to come from what I mistook for an odd pun in the first. With 'Save The Male!' emblazoned on tees and signage, I had visions of some kind of 'Y-chromosome rebellion' against the championed female empowerment of the post-Spice Girls / Sex & The City eras. My pleasure at being mistaken, was quickly replaced with a sombre sadness, as two lovely gents from CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) told me of the latest disturbing stats collated on Male Depression, and the rising suicide figures in the UK. EricaSharlette Promotions Ltd. is a BIG supporter and advocate of Charity works; so expect to hear more about this and many other deserving causes in the coming months.

Back to my shenanigans, as my stomach followed my nose, out of the warehouse space housing the stalls, to a literal global cuisine wonderland. Slap bang in the middle of 'The Food Zone'; tastes of The Orient stood next to West Indian, Asian and African hot food, with every stand as busy as the last. With my edible call of nature answered, I became quite the comedy sketch to passers by. Trying my hardest to enjoy my Oriental mixed box which, I at first took to be overpriced at £7.50, until I actually tried to finish the thing - Woman vs. Food style - while capturing more of the amazing live street art and trying to get a good look at some seriously talented beatboxers; all without dropping a single thing...(I'm proud to say I succeeded).

Determined to get a good spot for the line up on the Adidas Main Stage, I made my way through other activity set ups, which made brilliant use of the indoor and outdoor spaces. From a Kids Area for trainer designs on interactive screens to what I can only describe as an extremely cool 'Nail Lair', housing a collective of four talented artists whom I would gladly let loose on me - the variety of styles and talent were just another example of the eclectic offerings made available on the day.

DJ Collective Livin Proof were deep into their old skool Hip Hop set by the time we took up position in front of the stage; entertaining everyone from actual Breakers, to the most unlikely of participants...

Supported by BBC 1Xtra's DJ Cameo, Dot Rotten delivered a setlist that left his audience on Overload. Popular tracks 'Keep It On The Low', 'Armageddon' and many more from his impressive back catalogue, the Grime MC was clearly a crowd favourite.

A Supa Dupa Set from the Supa DupaFly duo that is DJ Emily Rawson and the hilarious 'Big Teddy Ted' followed; with what was easily the best set I've ever heard from the Rock The Belles Head Honcho. Not a still foot in the place, Ms. Rawson's old skool Hip Hop, RnB, and Garage mix was directly responsible for making this Blogger dance til her curls dropped. Guilty. As. Charged.

The biggest surprise of the line-up came courtesy of Washington DC-native, Oddisee. Currently touring off the back of his brilliant début album 'People Hear What They See'; I'm ashamed to admit that I had never heard of the half-Sudanese, half-American Rapper, prior to the event's press release. I've most definitely been missing out and, if you haven't heard of him yet, so have you. Mention also has to be made of his guitarist / backing vocalist, Olivier Daysoul, who had one of the most beautiful, literal God-given gift tones that this here music lover has heard in awhile. Sounding like a modern-day Marvin Gaye (quite the achievement coming from my audio-snobbish self); my next bloodhound mission is to find more of his works because my friends, that is a Man with a Voice! We unfamiliars were definitely in the minority if the entire rapalong crowd was anything to go by. Rectify your error quickly, with a few choice snippets from his headline set...

DJ Vadim changed the pace to one that kept the Junglists happy, before the Don Diva DJ that IS Ms. Nikki Beatnik took the 'Wheels of Steel' worldwide. Now if you're unfamiliar with the world's most stylish DJ, here are 5 crucial facts that you can always bank on in any of her sets:

1. Her global tastes are reflected in her track selections

2. You'll rack up Musical Air Miles following her 'decksploits'

3. You WILL be SCHOOLED on your music knowledge, no matter how much you think you know about what's really, really hot (yes, you may read that last line in a Missy Elliot voice)

4. You WILL dance until your own feet beg for sweet freedom from your weight and finally...

5. She'll do it all in iconic custom couture and a smile!

With my favourite Writing / Production / Sound System Duo, DJs Nikki and Statis, aka 'Beatnik'

Where the Supa DupaFly set got everyone overheated; by the time Nikki Beatnik closed the show, the contagious energy in the hidden streets of Shoreditch sent the packed crowd at the Adidas stage dancing onto Hysteria Lane. Don't believe me? Have a looksee at the whole day's event, courtesy of the other half of the writing / producing Superteam that is 'Beatnik' - Nikki's brother, Statis:

Definitely my contender for Event of the Year so far, in the 2013 Yearbook and Blog Awards; those other muddy festivals will need to pull something awesome out of the bag to top this one (some customised Wellies for Yours Truly might be a good start)...

Were you one of the revellers? What was your favourite part of the day? Sharing is caring don't forget; so leave your thoughts in the Comments Box below, and this page link on the statuses and timelines of your nearest and dearest, as their honest proof of your undying devotion.

For more photos from the day (courtesy of the amazing Allie Suwanrumpha), head over to the ESP Facebook Page or, visit ESP on YouTube - don't forget to Subscribe to both!

Read ya later!

ES ;)

Prose Over Pose: 'Lost In Music' Competition, March Music in the ESPspotlight

When I interviewed spoken word artist Poetika last year, I recall him talking about making that transition from the words he would write, to the ones that he would recite on stage as he became more comfortable with his talent and abilities. After the response to that interview and each reference I've made to the artform since, I knew I had to include a brilliant example during the Performance Week of this month-long, Lost In Music special. Stepping into the spotlight and getting comfortable within it, is a hurdle that all performers will have to overcome at some point, if they're going to progress within their chosen field.

If you caught my recent review of 'Chill Pill Connects...', the poetry, spoken word and Improv showcase that took place at The Albany in Deptford at the end of last month - then you will remember that I was quite taken with Ms. Kristiana Rae Colón; the devastatingly talented Chicago-native who absolutely slayed me with a performance that had so many aspects to it, that I couldn't pick a favourite.

I remember watching the Def Jam Comedy and Poetry specials once upon a time, and as soon as Kristiana launched into her set there was an immediate familiarity which, so many years down the line, says a heck of a lot about her level of talent and the sheer quality of her performance the first time around. The variety of styles in her delivery meant there was never time for you to get bored; between the pace and story unfolding, you were completely engrossed in her every word. The imagery that she uses gives life to that saying "Painting pictures with words". Whilst that particular performance hasn't surfaced online, I have managed to find a spectacular set where Kristiana proves that her ability to mesmerise and draw in her audience was not just a one off. Get comfortable and enjoy...

This is a lady who wears a lot of hats. Being that one of them is actually a teacher's, it comes as no surprise that her method seems to be leading by example. I think the most important lesson that aspiring performers can take from Ms. Colón, is to find your niche and use it to make people listen. Bear in mind that in Kristiana's case, she is a seasoned professional with a multitude of experience behind her; so the ability to tie up so many aspects - imagery, pacing and delivery, are well-practised. My personal preference, is her ability to connect through emotion. I believe her pain and align it with my own past experiences - that ability to harness your audience's full attention and make them identify with you, is the mark of a knock out performance, that stays with you for years to come.

Bottom line: Find YOUR niche, set up home within it and get comfortable - it's the only way to ensure you remain there for some time.

Have you already found yours? If you know where your niche lies and you're well into decorating your digs, then you know where to share your feedback! Post your talents with links in the Comment Box below.

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Competition Time - this is where it's all about You. For your chance to win a FREE #ESPspotlight Review of your upcoming event or performance at one, just answer one easy question below to get involved. Never fear if you don't win, you can still earn yourself 50% off ALL orders for event reviews placed between now and Thursday night - provided you quote #MarchMusic at the time of ordering! 

How To Enter:

1. Email your answer by 10:00AM tomorrow morning.
2. Tweet confirmation of your entry to ESP Ltd. on Twitter, using the #MarchMusic hashtag.
3. LIKE EricaSharlette Promotions Ltd. on Facebook.

So for today's question...

The Comedy and Poetry Jam series' were one of the many jewels in record label Def Jam's crown, during the 90s.

Name either of the label's co-founders (or both if you're a know it all)...

For yesterday's question I asked you:

With hair as big as her voice; Name The Diva who had two massive tracks, now synonymous with the Breakdance aka Breakin' films?

The answer is: The one and only Ms. Chaka Khan!

And Scene. Hope you enjoyed the latest - I'll catch you on the morrows. Nitey-Nite...

ES ;)

'Lost In Music' Competition Terms & Conditions:

• Only one entry per person, per day.
• Prize refers to ONE single/EP/Album/Event ONLY
• Applicable to Events within the London Regions ONLY. Winners outside of London and the UK will receive a Music Review.
• Performance week runs from 15th-21st March
• Entrants MUST complete all stages for entries to be eligible.
• Answers should be submitted via email, with confirmation of entry tweets containing the #MarchMusic hashtag sent to ESP Ltd. on Twitter.
• Entrants must LIKE the EricaSharlette Promotions Ltd. Facebook Page for entries to be considered eligible.
• All methods of entry should contain the #MarchMusic hashtag.
• The #MarchMusic promotional code must be applied to claim the 50% discount.
• Entry deadline is 10:00 on the morning after each competition post, winners will be notified via email within 24 hours.

Creativity Week! 'Lost In Music' Competition - March Music In The ESPspotlight

It's the second week of #MarchMusic in the #ESPspotlight and thus time to switch things up a tad! As I explained in last week's introduction, this month would be dedicated to journeying through aspects of Music not typically in the forefront of most people's attention. After looking at Understanding Music, the Psychology behind it's emotional effects on us and how it impacts the output we sell to our consumer base; the next seven days will be devoted to what really goes into Creating Music, with a special look at a few talented people along the way and a brand new competition prize courtesy of Yours Truly.

Whether Songwriting or Composing, the pure genius in Creativity means that the world gets to experience a unique, fingerprint expression of your art.

Meeting with a wonderfully motivated entrepreneur earlier today reignited my drive and passion for what I do. Being a self-starter is far harder than most people can envision, especially when the unavoidable obstacles of everyday life clutter your intended path. The infectious energy that I caught as we talked made me think of some of my favourite inspirational songs and the lyrics that call me into action. The task of picking just one to adequately sum up the moment was hard - as we saw earlier in the week, the BBC's Music Psychology test put my emotional connection with music at 100% (did you give the test a go? Share your results in the Comments Box)! The list of songs that give me energy is a LONG one, but I thought a week in - it was high time I pull out the Big Guns. 

Now it took 5 songs and over 20 minutes of reciting lyrics from memory before I settled on what I thought to be a fitting choice to kick off the sentiment of the week. The deciding factor was ultimately that if we were going to talk Musical Creators, there was only one person I could start with! Here's just a snippet of the creative ability that connected with BILLIONS of people worldwide, across 5 decades:

"You can say the words, like you understand -

But the Power's in believing, so give yourself a chance.

Cause you can climb the highest mountain, swim the deepest sea - 

All you need is the will to wanna and a little self-esteem."

Guessed who I'm talking about? Kicking off the Creativity Week of #MarchMusic is the Greatest Entertainer of All Time, with one of my favourite confidence-boosting tracks from, what do you know it, one of my favourite albums of all time! If you never have before, please listen to Michael Jackson's hugely inspirational and healing lyrics in 'Keep The Faith':

Uplifted? I don't know about you, but this one works for me every time!

Now. Onto the business of application. Creating something, no matter the artform, is like sharing a piece of yourself with the world, and by no means is it an easy task. Whilst the aim of most artists is to speak to their audience first; no matter how unfairly, that audience will forever grow, or diminish based on the words of people whom the masses consider knowledgeable on a subject. Good reviews can make or break a release, but a constructive one will always make that release memorable.

#ESPspotlight Reviews are some of the most referenced features on this blog, with recognition of my honest critique from Hendon to Hollywood; hey - Singer, Actor and Best-Selling Author Tyrese Gibson didn't request one for his first music video in umpteen years for nothing!

Real, Raw but Respectful, I'm giving ONE lucky composer the chance to win a FREE #ESPspotlight Review for their recorded works (usually £12.50) everyday, from now until next Thursday - all you have to do is answer one musical question correctly, tweet your entry confirmation and LIKE ESP on Facebook by 20:13 each night to be in with a chance. Don't worry if you don't win though - I'm also adding a whopping great 50% discount on composition reviews for the SAME period - don't forget to quote #MarchMusic to claim it!

You ready for today's question? Let's test your Musical knowledge:

Name Michael Jackson's first SOLO album...

In the final question on the Understanding Music week, I asked you:

'George Gershwin also composed another massive hit about a 'foreigner' in the city currently hosting it's final day of Haute Couture Fashion Week. There is even a classic Gene Kelly film of the same name - Name That Tune!'

The answer is: An American In Paris!

DON'T FORGET - email your entries for today's competition,  tweet your confirmation using the #MarchMusic hashtag and LIKE ESP Ltd. of Facebook by 20:13 tomorrow to be in with a chance!

See you soon!

ES ;)

Competition Terms & Conditions:

• Only one entry per person, per day.
• Prize refers to ONE single/EP/Album ONLY.
• Entrants must complete all stages for entries to be eligible.
• Answers should be submitted via email, with confirmation of entry tweets sent to ESP Ltd. on Twitter.
• Entrants must LIKE the EricaSharlette Promotions Ltd. Facebook Page to entries to be considered eligible.
• All methods of entry should contain the #MarchMusic hashtag.
• The #MarchMusic promotional code must be applied to claim the 50% discount.
• Entry deadline is 20:13 each day, winners will be notified via email within 24 hours.

#ESPspotlight Review: 'An Evening with Soneni And The Soul, with Special Guest KOF!'

There's a good reason why I allowed Soneni and The Soul to remain atop the Groups section of my UK Favourites list, where they firmly ensconced themselves a few years back now. 

I mean sure, they're ridiculously talented, nice people, really rather entertaining individually, but a smash hit wonder collectively, and all that good stuff, but none of that was it. If I'm honest, I can't actually remember what it was. I'm sure it wasn't (just) because their lead singer slightly reminds me of a little black fairy in 4D, that would fly into any open orifice and beat me from the inside out, with her actual backside, in syncopated rhythm, until I complied...Pretty sure. I mean I think it wasn't. More about Soneni's posterior later - it's officially a 5th member that earned it's own mention after it's buttline performance at Chalk Farm's The Monarch last Wednesday night.

'An Evening With Soneni And The Soul with Special Guest KOF (and Zimbabwe's Best Foreign Asset)' was the latest stop on the self-described 'Afrosoul' band's UK tour, where they're introducing the Country to Funk from The Soul, with acoustic aplomb.

Always one for a family outing, I brought the Jamerican One out to enjoy the night with me, showing Lekhem my appreciation for his attendance by sticking him on camera duty for the night. Hey, he likes it! Why withhold the joys in life that make him such a happy little bunny?!

As well as leaders of the beat, Soneni and Bass/Keys Player and Producer Elmo, also split hosting duties, successfully warming the crowd with quickfire quiz games at each interval; right before DJ Jekyl incited bestial behaviour with what I entitled 'Killer Fillers' early on. The man was responsible for many a female whining their waists; shapes were thrown, teeth were gritted and bared, DMX-style growls were repeatedly heard...Until Lekhem eventually took me aside and had a word. First Lady of Disney, yes. Maybe even a cheeky musical. But Eve I was not, and I was warned in no uncertain terms that if I couldn't control myself, the head rubbing and my Master P-style "Uhhhhh's", there would be NO MORE HIP HOP IN PUBLIC FOR ME. I had never been so insulted. Not since the last thing he said to me anyway...

Tamed and permitted to rejoin the crowd if I promised to behave; Hip Hop Poet Nego True was just getting comfy enough with us to strip. Clothing, nerves...the East London native broke the ice by removing the nerve barriers that stood between him and his audience. Very funny and down to earth; True brought a healthy mix of natural comedy to his set, which worked perfectly to break up the sombre severity of his topics.

Hip Hop Spoken Word Artist, Nego True

'Starts Early', was a powerful piece about London's 'postcode wars' and the far-reaching scope of it's fallout across family, friends and more. 'Dear Mr. Racist' was an eloquent open letter to the David Starkeys and (still breathing) Charlton Hestons of today's world. 'Sometimes' was a break up ode based in confusion that still seemed a little raw, judging by the stumbles off his game during his delivery. When he paused the piece with a reassuring "Don't worry, I still remember it!" You had to wonder if those were really 'stumbles' after all, or an intentional part of his relatable game plan.

A quick 'Getting To Know You' chat with Soneni and Elmo tied Nego True's performance up in a neat little bow. Another quickfire quiz round was followed by more DJ Jekyl fire; when the warning face Lekhem shot me from across the room quashed the mini shapes I wasn't so much trying to 'throw', as scatter gently and quietly, into empty air pockets in the near vicinity. He was really quelling the joy in my existence...

The night's special guest really needed little to no introduction. I just so happened to notice the females in the room gravitate to the front en masse, for unobscured views of the stage. Can't say I blamed them; I secured my spot way back in the first quiz round - because I wanted to see the show of course - no other reason...

Liverpool Singer-Songwriter KOF

KOF's cheeky charm has become way more pronounced since I last caught him live. His stage presence was commanding before but, clearly seasoned now, he's got the whole thing down to Scotch Bonnet hoT, with a capital T (Google it non-hued people). Proving it's all natural, no rehearsal time necessary, his rapport with The Monarch crowd was immediate; just as his ability to connect in jest as well as song, was effortless. His words echoed from a few weeks back, as I remembered him talking about coming out of his shell on stage, because he was among friends. 

I can't imagine that not one female, across any of his shows, has ventured an answer to the questions posed in opening track 'Lookin At Me' (I know I have a few suggestions)...Fully aware of the answers to his own questions; KOF still used the icebreaker to draw his audience into banter, mid-song. The Liverpool Lad's rendition of his 'Thugs Mansion / Smells Like Teen Spirit' mashup was my equivalent of watching lab rats during a clinical experiment - in the nicest way possible. Go with me on this one...You see, half the enjoyment of KOF's set, was watching what he does on wax, translate to what he gives in a live setting. A talent that far too few performers have the ability to master, in my humble opinion - it was interesting to watch a case study in action, as he maintained the swagger (for want of a more apt, less annoying description) at exactly the right level to keep the ladies entranced, but without offending the lads, instead keeping them onside with both relating to his every word. If that's not the makings of a future great, I don't know what is.

Giving us something we could feel...KOF put the work in

A nice little cliffhanger of a track about his being 'alright in his Soul' (which we were all very glad to hear), preceded a stellar performance of 'Fire On The Mountain'. But it was that cover of D'Angelo's 'Brown Sugar' that was the standout performance for Yours Truly. Purely because of the delivery and singalong interaction with Soneni and a few other ladies in attendance, you understand; and not at all because the Young Sir fulfilled that Valentine's surprise he promised me a few week's back. That had nowt to do with it - I swear on the horsemeat burgers I no longer eat. I mean really, do I look like the type to be swayed by mischievous eyes and sexy serenades (*ahem* video attempts are accepted via email, though. For professional purposes only, of course)...

The serious nature of 'Child of the Ghetto' grabbed everyone's  attention back to the music after the steam...I mean jokes of 'Brown Sugar'. Soneni and Elmo's mini interview with KOF post-performance proved the rapport between the artists was a brilliant starting point for the joint tour that the headliner's hinted at very 'subtly'. Done with almost equal diplomacy as my saying if that goes ahead, there's not a security guard in town big enough to keep me from the front row, never mind the building. Disney First Lady my sweet round...

Speaking of which, remember earlier when I said we would be discussing the band's 5th member? Well when Soneni and The Soul returned after the final interval, their First Lady having changed into a gown full of splendour, all in the building felt the change in electricity sure, but my, were they (me) in awe of what that little Madam did with her South End.

SATS Lead Singer Soneni Nkomo

Before we talk setlist, I need to talk franchise options. Because I'll tell you something for nothing right now - if by some freak force of nature this 'band thing' doesn't work out, that Diminuitive Diva has a career LOCK on a New Year DVD workout series and I want IN on it - you all see you're reading about it here first! Davina you better watch your spot, love; Soneni's backing up...literally.

Kicking off with 'Cloud 9', the track was the perfect opener since it was evident they were already floating from the first note. You didn't need to have caught them live before to know, that this was obviously not these guys' first time. They didn't need a second to get in sync; they came together and flowed effortlessly in every way that you want to see from a live band.

There are few better equipped to tribute 'Summer Days' than this lot. Even under bright stage lights on a ruddy freezing London winter night, I still see them in fields of sunshine in the summertime. That's pretty much their own fault though. Have you seen the video for 'We Can Go'? I own no blame. A cover of Sizzla's 'Thank You Mama' had us all emosh. I'm pretty sure I caught the biggest dude in the room swiping tears as he rang his Mum and blubber undying love and devotion at the sound of her voice. I was moved to gift mine with my Dairy Box quiz winnings. It's Real Love out here people. One's up to the Mamas.

SATS Guitarist Andrew 'A-Train' Pearse and Drummer Boukie

Now, if you caught my review of the 'Million Miles Away' EP, you'll remember what I told you about that drumbeat from Boukie on Spoken Word track 'A Place Called eKhaya'. What someone neglected to warn me, was that Camden traffic is far too heavy for actual spirit walks; The Highway Code does not account for those and a rewrite should be considered. The band also might want to think about including a PSA of some kind for any unsuspecting listeners prone to hypnosis. Law suits are only good to the tailors fitting you up, my friends - tink bout it...

The 'Ziyahamba' buzz word used throughout the quiz rounds finally made sense to those unfamiliar with the EP. Bringing the house down James Brown style, when that Soneni chick kneeled in those heels to let the track breathe, she made me want to throw my coat around, and aid her on her glitter-heeled journey to the Promised Land.

The Reggae twist on funk-enthused tune 'The Zone' took everyone  to a new destination, deep inside the title. As the band broke it down for the bridge, it proved to be the official spotlight moment on how tight Soneni, Elmo, Boukie and Andrew, aka A-Train really are. You experienced what the greats talk about in their VH1 Behind The Music specials. If you bodyswapped them with one another, once the initial shock of Soneni's rear end on one body, whilst it's personality took over one of the boy's wore off; I'm pretty sure you would find that rest would have perfect command of each other's talents. The (pun-intended) bottom line is, that the well-rehearsed fusion showed why when it comes to their compositions, the gents really are The Soul in their dynamic...

If the latter is the boy's moment to shine, then 'Million Miles Away' is Soneni's, to trample the message of core talent, home. Stripped of all other distractions, with only A-Train for backup, the singer let her vocals fly for a performance as sweet as she is. The cherubic innocence didn't last long though. Using DMX's infamous 'Ruff Ryders Anthem', mashed up with Nas and Lauryn Hill's 'If I Ruled The World' to introduce the band in a jam session so epic that Soneni failed to notice her bangle fly off in a fit of enthusiasm. I don't know if it landed with the same impact as an Arrow from Cupid, but it was replaced afterwards by a willing fan / courtier / prospective husband, judging by the delicate look on his face, as he gently adorned her wrist...

Soneni And The Soul need NO help getting the party started...

'We Can Go' aka 'My Azontoing In A Field a la Soneni, With Some Elmo Shades On' song, will never disappoint! A full on party in the place by this point; I had to self-impose some calm as I remembered that while Soneni had endless cause, excuse and justification to sweat out her last hair curl - I did not.

Where some may call 'Fly So High' Soneni And The Soul's encore, for me to describe it as anything less than their 'Proud Mary' equivalent would be an insult to music. All that was missing in that Acappella intro, was Soneni throwing in a little "Slow, and EEEAAAAASSSSYYY..." in a Tina voice, before Boukie started beating on those drums like his name was Ike, returning from beneath the ground to settle one last score with Anna Mae in the back of the limo, IMmortal Kombat style...

The Donae'o twist of 'I'm Fly' on the track's end was like a lit match on the paraffin-doused set. All that was missing was an impression of the North-West London Performer/Producer by Elmo to lace that final note: "And we done - FINISH".

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If you want to see Soneni And The Soul Smash Down another venue, you can catch the next stop on their tour here.

Visit the EricaSharlette Promotions Ltd. Facebook Page for Lekhem's photos from the event.

As always, connect and engage with all of the artists on the line up via their Social Media Catalogues below:

Soneni And The Soul:

Twitter: Soneni, Elmo, Boukie, A-Train / Facebook / Mixtape Download /

Mixtape Review by Yours Truly

KOF:

Twitter / Facebook / Website

'Soul:Series' EP Review / Interview ...also by Yours Truly

Nego True:

Twitter / Facebook / YouTube

If you enjoyed what you read here, then please do tell a friend to tell a friend that reviews are available for purchase. Get in touch for quotes!

#MarchMusic in the #ESPspotlight doesn't stop here, stay tuned to the blog for Music Specials and competitions everyday this month!

Until tomorrow...

ES ;)

#UPCOMINGEVENT 'CHILL PILL CONNECTS...' THE ALBANY, 28TH FEB

Chill Pill Connects...

Date and Time: Thursday 28th February

Tickets: £7 / Concessions: £5

South London’s coolest spoken word night returns featuring David J, Ross Sutherland and Kristiana Rae Colón, plus rising talent on the Open Mic.

Our poets have been plucked straight from the field and frozen within three hours to provide you with only the freshest spoken word.

Featuring:

David J

UK spoken word legend and vocal pugilist. Visit website.

Ross Sutherland

Time Out award-winning poet and performer. Visit website. 

Kristiana Rae Colón

Chicago-born poet, seen on HBO's Def Poetry Jam. Visit website.

Limited Open Mic slots available. Arrive early to sign up.

Buy Tickets