Read All About It

Emeli Sandé In Concert
Brighton Dome
Friday 5th April 2013

Emeli Sandé was simply brilliant at a sold out Dome tonight. What a powerful voice and such great songs. Performing mostly material from her debut album 'Our Version Of Events' I particularly liked 'Clown' and 'Read All About It'. Highlight of the show for me though was her achingly sad and emotional version of 'Suitcase' which was re-worked simply with just her voice and a bass guitar, a very moving and touching rendition. Every song she sang was a winner and I thought she looked a little bit more comfortable sitting at her piano rather than on her feet with her sometimes slightly awkward stage presence but this lady put her heart, body and soul into every word she sang, she meant every line of every song. Wonderful to see and hear. Emeli Sandé is a really talented vocalist and songwriter and I for one can't wait to hear her next album. This was the best female vocal performance I've seen in years.

The support act, Jacob Banks, was also very good. He's not a name that I was familiar with until tonight but this talented 21 year old soul singer from Birmingham proved himself to be an excellent vocalist with a real rich soulful voice and although relatively new to the music scene it may well be worth exploring his music further. A pleasant and welcome surprise. www.jacobbanks.co.uk  

Also a special mention here for the fabulous Brighton Dome, without doubt this has to be one of the best concert halls outside of London. The drinks might be a bit pricey but it's a classy venue for a classy act. A great night out.

Emeli's debut album Our Version Of Events