JAKE BUGG live at O2 Academy Brixton.

Upon arrival I cannot help but notice the incredibly long line that has already assembled. Jake Bugg has some determined fans, and his sold out show at O2 Academy Brixton is expected to be one hell of a night, judging by the excited whispers.

Well inside, the barriers are crammed with the youngsters, yet it is a diverse crowd, age and gender wise, who’ve showed up this Tuesday night to indulge in Mr. Bugg’s musical universe. The lights dim out and we’re ready.

Taking to the stage all by himself, the singer-songwriter is fearlessly facing the packed crowd as he opens suitably with On My One, which is the first single of his latest album with the same name. Following with two more acoustic songs, he gets to show off his capability as a solo artist before being joined by his band.

His solo performance is more than just an acoustic out-lash. It works as an extension of the attitude carried out on his latest release, which is the first album Jake Bugg himself is fully responsible for.

The live transformation from acoustic to a collective effort goes seamless as the band hits it off with Bugg’s break through single Two Fingers. The track is marvellously contradictory with a lyric holding ‘two fingers up to yesterday’, whilst clinging to a nostalgic melody. The 60’s rock feels are strong with this one.

Bugg’s characteristic vocal flowers and blooms throughout the set. He is the centre of attention in every way, his band mates simply characters in his play. Bugg controls the concert’s every move with a preciseness that can come across as somewhat cynical at times.

Though a man of few words, he takes a moment to acknowledge the existence of his crowd. “Thank you.” – he says, having a humble moment before carrying on. “We’re gonna play a song, and it’s a song from my second album. A short song called Me and You“. Many of his songs are in fact short, giving the set a fast pace feel that suits the whole rock star persona Bugg conveys.

On Messed Up Kids, of his sophormore album Shangri La, the quality of Bugg’s backing band really comes across. Through the country sparked, heavy, rock chords, you observe the tight machinery of complimentary bass, precise percussion and old-school keys. The band gives the man of the night every tool to be the best he can be.

With classical guitar riffs and Bugg’s distinctive vocal as a constant throughout the performance. We get served everything from out-lashing, pompous rockstar moments like debut classic Seen It All to more melancholic ballads like Never Wanna Dance. Which again fades out in a prolonged instrumental.

Lashing into Slumville Sunrise the country vibe is vibrant, that is until the band unleash their drum thundering rock abilities. Jake Bugg’s normally so held back persona cracks in the heat of the live performance. It all seems a bit more personal, and you can even spot a smile upon the singer’s face as he glance over the Brixton crowd.

Heart aching Simple Pleasure grows into a bombastic serenade when played live. The tune’s more fragile moments are given the space to soar, whilst the song’s thundering build-ups bring the crowds to their knees. Followed by Gimme The Love‘s uncompromising drums and controversial rap-like lyrics.

Mr. Bugg takes a moment to appreciate people coming down “even on a Tuesday”, before emerging into Broken, the room echoes with thousands of voices singing along. The crescendo has the hair rise on the back of your neck and your humble narrator has to wipe a tear or two whilst the man himself settles for the finish.

Rounding up the evening with power tune, Lightning Bolt, Jake Bugg has once again proven his quality as a live performer. Though the set could be a bit monotonous at times, as the singer himself got carried away, there is no doubt that this was an excellent gig. Still at a young age, Jake Bugg has a promising future ahead.

Photos: Aurora Henni Krogh