I had the pleasure of witnessing a great concert last night by a remarkable artist. Bilal was exhilarating as he always is. He ran through a playlist of old and new songs (mostly from his new album).
He emerged to the stage in mirror styled glasses, an eccentric ensemble and him looking fly in his top hat.
He wore a bandana on his wrist which he unveiled during the performance to accompany his mic stand.
He rocked the stage with his hip gyrations, eccentric movements and full blooded passion when he belted the high notes that he is known for. It was the 4th July but that didn’t stop him going full throttle on London’s top venue (as if it was London’s Independence Day).
His movements might have caused some offence as it appeared that he was simulating sexual acts with the microphone as his prop. He had a moment where it was clear that he had given himself a sexual high. At that moment, I was thinking that I wanted the stuff he was on.
The most remarkable performances involved the tracks from previous albums such as; Sometimes, Reminisce, Levels, All Matter and Soul Sista. The tracks from the new album Love Surreal were less well known by members of the audience although I knew most of the tracks and already having a favourite ‘Winning Hand’ (which he performed delectably).
The singing was top form although clearly not for everyone. The screaming singing style may not go as well for those that prefer a more soothing sound.
The best parts of the concert were where he sang his ass off on every SINGLE track. The worst parts of the concert was the waiting time (almost 3 and a half hours).
Nevertheless, if you are looking for a mix between soul and rock influenced styles, then Bilal is the guy that will rock your world (he certainly rocked mine).