Jazz
Cafe, London - 07 July 2003
Detroit's
Andwele Gardner or Dwele
as he is better known, graced the infamous Jazz Cafe stage in a baggy
cream suit or "Whistle and flute" as he termed it, teamed with
matching cream kangol flat cap and trainers. The mix of smart and casual
is symbolic of his musical style. Fast gaining a reputation for being
the latest in a line of Neo- classic soul smoothies, he cannot leave his
edgier vibe behind. This was showcased in his work with Slum
Village. They share the same management and have worked together
since 1997 on hits such as 'Ainted'. Dwele also shares an ability to rap
with them. Up tempo, mid tempo or slow jams, Dwele was about to unleash
his individuality.
On stage he was able to showcase his varied talents in their entirety
with the help of his band, and female back up singer. Though used to appearing
at Jazz clubs and performance poetry venues, Dwele appeared shy at times,
but he was shining and soon got into his groove as he dropped such hits
as 'Find a way', the summery infectious first single from his debut album.
Dwele built up a rapport with his diverse audience who were made up of
young, urban, funky and trendy types. They all sang along to the verses,
visibly feeling the lyrics and beats, while he performed the majority
of the cuts on his set such as 'Truth and Money don't mean a thing.' If
you were new to Dwele, you would appreciate the calibre of performance,
but nevertheless you would feel left out. He also played homage to one
of his inspirations, Marvin Gaye by
performing one of his tracks.
Such is the hype that surrounds this new star that the UK underground as in the US before them, have already awoken to his album 'Subject' which was released here in May. Indeed his fan base is fast growing, we can all relate to the universal themes embraced by his material such as relationships. Having performed the night before at Jazz cafe, Dwele was developing his understanding of his UK fans, and stated that he had a particular fondness for them since they did not scream and yell as they do in America!
Though the
crowd was apparently not assertive enough in their requests, they received
unexpected treats such as the incredible sound effects which Dwele replicated
as he became a human organ, drum etc. This party trick went on for a good
while, and Dwele proved that he can do much more than just play several
instruments! Dwele pleased the crowd so, that he had to return for an
encore after his first attempt to depart. Fellow stars were there to enjoy
the entertainment including Trevor Nelson
and Jazzie B. Like everyone else,
they are inquisitive about an artist who is being compared to D'angelo,
Musiq and Raphael
Sadiq.
Live, Dwele is slightly reminiscent of an old school jazz artist especially
when singing such joints as 'Kick out of you'. Dwele aims to deliver fun
at his concerts and also to have fun. He is a considerate artist who tries
to please the crowd and admits to being "focused on perfecting his
live shows." Overall the evening like the album was very mellow,
so the next time your looking for a chilled event, check the listings
for a Dwele Gig!
Return To Concert Review Archive
US Music | Clubs | Front Page | UK Music | Events