By Jennifer Rock

Shepherd's Bush Empire, London - 8 March 2005

There are not too many up and coming artists who can brag about playing to a packed auditorium on their 28th birthday. The venue: Shepherd’s Bush Empire; the date: March 8th 2005; the artist: Van Hunt.

We know who he is because his contemporary blues, rock and funk sound is fairly unique and retro. His self entitled album has been making headlines across both sides of the Atlantic, whilst his latest joint ‘Down Here In Hell With You’ has been blowing up the air waves.

I wasn’t sure what I was expecting, but I came away with my ears ringing which can often be the mark of a good show. Timing is of the essence when attending events like these where there is no supporting act. I was able to enjoy no waiting around and a show that lasted an amazing hour and a half, which is years in artists ‘speak’.

As he took centre stage, what seemed like an empty auditorium full of posted to the wall onlookers, suddenly became awash with activity as crowds of people converged towards the smoky blue lit stage, very reminiscent of an episode of ‘MTV Unplugged’.

He opened the show with a few rock based anthems from his album such as ‘Highlights’ and ‘Anything To Get Your Attention’ which really got the crowd rocking into full swing. I was pleased with the choice of venue, a cosy setting for
what turned out to be a very intimate performance.

Tunes such as ‘Something About The Way You Look’ and ‘Precious’ slowed down the tempo for the night, whilst a surprising acapella performance from his four piece band showcased their vocal talents and musical versatility.

After a rousing gospel number where Van Hunt turned preacher and got the audience riled up, he then played tribute to one of his all time heroes, Mr James Brown in an outstanding rendition of ‘This Is A Man’s World’ complete with a soaring falsetto screech.

This show was as much about the band as it was about Van Hunt as a solo artist. Tracks such as ‘Her December’ really allowed individual members to shine. You get the feeling that they have travelled a long way together.

His vocal skills were not too dissimilar to that of Otis Redding, whilst his antics on stage more than kept the audience entertained. I’m in no doubt that justifiable comparisons can be made between himself and Lenny Kravitz with their likeness in their command of the stage.

It is not very often that you get the chance to witness a performance with such an eclectic mix of musical styles, which was received by a receptive audience. All of which consisted of a diverse mix of ages and nationalities who came out to support an artist, who I’m sure will go on to achieve great things.

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