JACK GARRATT Live at Eventim Apollo
JACK GARRATT delivers emotional performance at Eventim Apollo in London.
There is a lot of history trapped within the walls of Eventim Apollo. 84 years to be precise. That’s exactly how long it’s been since its doors were opened. Graced by many legendary acts as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Marley, the venue has become a vital part, a heart of West London’s artistic scene.
Now, the Little Chalfont musician, Jack Garratt makes a history of his own as he takes to the stage, for the second day in a row, to perform to over eight thousand people gathered here on this Thursday night.
Coalesce (Synesthesia, Pt. 2) makes a stirring opening respectively to Garratt’s debut album, Phase, and tonight’s set. The singer-songwriter has successfully mastered the ability of ruling over many instruments simultaneously, and it is indeed awe-inspiring to watch.
The screams do not cease when Jack Garratt moves on to the compelling track Breathe Life but before he hits the notes of the smooth Weathered, he says: “You guys were amazing on the second song. Will you be louder on this one?”
The response from the crowd is very predictable at this point. Fans clearly sing back every word what leaves bigger with each song, smile on the musician’s face.
Placed in the centre of the stage, the multi-instrumentalist shapes a somewhat personal kingdom as he keeps tight reign on his percussion machines and keys sequences, holding an electric guitar in one hand and drum stick in the other. Smooth and precise transitions elegantly come into being as Garratt proceeds with every offering.
The entire performance leaves a trace of grandiose live experience. Palatial stage production and abundant lighting sets surely add the theatrical factor to the show. Aesthetics create a sense of great importance, baring in mind the minimalism of having only three people on stage as Garratt is joined by two singers located on both of his sides.
The subtle Far Cry and imposing The Love You’re Given are another chance to expose and underline the falsetto vocals which are being lightly echoed throughout.
Jack Garratt‘s humble persona shines bright tonight proving that sometimes only one man can make a lot of noise, even on a massive stage. His engagement with the crowd deserves a little praise too.
“Can I ask you something. Do you mind if I do a cover?” – he asks however this causes quite a dissatisfaction and disapproval amongst the audience. “Let me know if you have heard of this little number before” – Garratt proceeds anyway presenting a brilliant mash-up of couple of tracks.
Teasing the crowd with bits and pieces of Red Hot Chili Peppers’ ‘Can’t Stop’ and some Spice Girls added to the mix, he suitably moves on to Britney Spears’ ‘Oops I Did It Again’, but of course he doesn’t finish any of those songs.
“No no, I’ve been clear about what I’ve been doing. Okay I’ll stop fucking around” – and we get another blend of Justin Bieber, Destiny’s Child and a favourite of many, ‘Eye Of The Tiger’. Well, it surely has been entertaining despite the fact it seemed like the musician would never intend to stop.
“Tell me if you’ve heard of Justin Timberlake?! Tell me if you’ve heard of Craig David?!” we hear and the version of the songs ‘7 Days’ and ‘Señorita’ follows emphasising Garratt‘s immense talent one more time.
As we are heading towards the end, the refined Surprise Yourself makes its stand whilst Fire brings some sparks as the stage literally bursts into flames.
“I’m not gonna pretend I’m walking off the stage and coming back again. You guys are too beautiful to me. I’m gonna stay here” – Garratt states and adds: “Give me a shout if you want one more song!” and the loud cheers follow.
But the artists is not done yet. “Give me a shout if you want two more songs!” suggesting that the people who have gone for the first option can leave the room earlier.
Not losing his sense of humour, Jack Garratt showcases two more tracks. My House Is Your Home, preceded by a moving speech and a dedication to singer’s fiancée, her family, and all of us, undoubtedly falls as a significant moment leaving mark in our minds and hearts.
“People of London city! Two nights at fucking Eventim Apollo done!” – he shouts expressing his gratitude and sending away the words “I don’t want to leave”.
Well, neither do we but as the last song suggests: Don’t you worry about it because this was just a phase, and I’m sure all our paths will cross again.
Photos: Kasia Osowiecka