Shropshire Star

Rag'n'Bone Man, O2 Academy, Birmingham - review and pictures

He's the proud owner of two 2017 Brit Awards - and vocal powerhouse Rag'n'Bone Man proved exactly why at Birmingham's O2 Academy last night.

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The East Sussex-born singer-songwriter kicked off proceedings standing alone centre-stage, dressed in a red and black checked shirt, playing electric guitar.

Lights then shone through the backdrop curtain, revealing a four-piece band; an entertaining, surprising way to start a show.

From the moment he began, Rag'n'Bone Man's vocals were spectacular and soulful - his voice so strong that it filled the packed-out venue with ease.

The sound was superbly clean throughout too and skillful lighting added to the atmosphere.

"How you doing guys, you good?" he smiled.

"It's nice to be back in Birmingham. Thank you for coming out tonight - I appreciate it.

Rag'n'Bone Man at the O2 Academy in Birmingham. All pics by Andy Shaw

"I think the last time I was here was back in 2013 supporting Bastille. It's nice to be here on my own."

Numbers such as Ego and Your Way Or The Rope were performed impeccably. Each note was pitch perfect and his deep, hefty tones thrilling and enchanting.

The crowd were in good spirits too, singing and moving along - despite the freezing cold weather outside and the scorching-hot, packed-out conditions inside. A doll of Rag'n'Bone Man was even thrown on to the stage - which resulted in a comical, surprised reaction from the singer.

Rag'n'Bone Man at the O2 Academy in Birmingham. All pics by Andy Shaw

His performance of numbers such as Lay My Body Down and Life In Her Yet were also stunning, though more or less of the same tempo as the rest of the set.

This is really my only complaint with the show - and something that would really put me off going to see him again.

He may have an incredible voice, and even an unassuming, endearing stage manner - but the pace barely changed once. With such wonderful vocals, he could have performed some stunning covers, even.

Though I was very impressed with his voice, I was basically falling asleep by the end.

The highlight was, however, a dynamic, hefty rendition of mega hit Human - to which the whole crowd sang along. His ability to hold notes and reach an impressive range was stunning.

If only he could inject a tad more pizzazz into his live performance, he may just be onto something.

By Kirsten Rawlins

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