Anthony Hamilton @ Criterion Theatre, London 23/03/2006


 

By Mamito Kukwikila

 

So So Def presents the dynamic master of soul that is Anthony Hamilton… and he is sure to ‘Change the World’!

 

The name Anthony Hamilton is sure to be on the lips on many soul fans. It is hard to say he is a sensation in the making, as he is no stranger to the game. Mr Hamilton has been around for just over 10 years, having already released two albums ‘XTC’ (1996) and ‘Comin’ from Where I Come From’ (2003). However, unlike some of his soul comrades he has not enjoyed the accolade entitled to him. Yet, with the release of his latest album, ‘Ain’t’ Nobody Worryin’, he is sure to be staying on the route of eminence.

 

Mr Hamilton’s trip to the U.K was a long wait in anticipation, but he finally arrived, and he most definitely did not disappoint.

 

The Criterion Theatre was where the action took place; it was a great venue choice as the theatre was small and intimately lit - just the right setting for Anthony to serenade his impatient audience.

 

Fans were treated to tracks from the latest album, a set that is raw and gritty yet full of sexy Southern Soul. This was clearly reiterated through his powerhouse performances, which was aided through the live, energetic band. 

 

The Southern crooner divided the show into three parts, demonstrating what can be expected from the album. The first being the ‘get-up-close and personal with your lover’ section, in which he delivered heart melting songs such as ‘Can’t Let Go’ and ‘The Truth’. The second being the body shaking R&B section, which got the heart pumping and the blood flowing, and the third being the most prolific and hard hitting section, which had the audience captured in awe.

 

Tracks such as ‘Ain’t’ Nobody Worryin’ and ‘Preacher’s Daughter’ were sung passionately, testifying to Anthony’s vocal ability, sense of pain and injustice as well as his incredible writing skill. The performances of the third section were reminiscent of old school soul from the 1960s and 70s, especially ‘Preacher’s Daughter’, which was delivered in an emphatic gospel form.

 

Mr Hamilton could not leave without giving us a rendition of ‘Everybody’, which is acquiring immense airtime on British radio stations such as London’s Choice FM.

 

Anthony Hamilton is a charismatic, yet humble showman; it was an exhilarating and moving experience watching him perform. Things can only get better for Mr Hamilton.

 

 

 
 

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