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André Paine's rating
Knight strains to capture Aretha's soul
By
André Paine
12 Apr 2007
"Anybody heard of Aretha Franklin?" asked Beverley Knight mid-way through her comeback show. "She could sing her arse off - but tonight I'm going to do it!"
As it turned out, that was a pretty accurate description of her 60-minute set. Yet, while Knight's voice was technically brilliant and her appreciation of classic soul was never in doubt, her performance didn't always move you as much as it should have done.
This show was a preview of Knight's new album, Music City Soul, recorded in Nashville with musicians who have worked with Elvis and Al Green.
The results of those sessions on display last night were generally positive: a gospel-tinged disavowal of the slick but hollow R&B currently emanating from the US.
The band, including a horn section and trio of backing singers, were able but often appeared slightly cowed by her pummelling voice. Crucially, the audience loved it, loudly applauding the opening No Man's Land, a full-throated torch song that's also her new single.
That reaction appeared to be validation for Knight, who was recently awarded the MBE for services to music and charity. On this performance, it could just as easily have been for giddy enthusiasm, as she could barely contain herself during After You and a sultry reworking of the hit Shoulda Woulda Coulda.
In fact, the 34-year-old from Wolverhampton was sometimes not unlike a suggestive aunty, instructing those at the back to get away with more fun "because I can't see you". And when she went from describing herself as "black butter" in one song to "gold" in the next, you did wonder where else she was going to go looking for metaphors about love and sex.
In fact, she turned to Janis Joplin's Piece of My Heart, which was decent enough. But it was her cover of Aretha Franklin's Rock Steady, where she combined brilliantly with her band, that got the audience dancing.
That was one of a couple of occasions during the evening where Knight undoubtedly had real soul. The rest of the performance, however, was professional and compelling, but never quite unique.
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
Reader views (4)
This was the 4th time I've seen Beverley and her voice gets better every time. You will not see a better soul performer in this country with as much energy, passion and love for her craft. The new stuff was wicked, really excited about the new album in May. Her rendition of Rock Steady by Aretha and her own "Come As You Are" for an ancore blew everyone away. Loved every minute!
- Clayton, London, 13/04/2007 11:09
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"Piece of My Heart" was a big hit and the original version for Aretha Franklin's sister, Erma Franklin, who recorded the tune on Shout Records.
Another hot version of the song was recorded by the Detroit diva, Bettye LaVette, who is currently enjoying one of the most spectacular comebacks in music history.
- Oliver, New York City, 12/04/2007 22:05
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This is the fifth time I have seen Beverley now and she just gets better and better. The energy and raw emotion she puts into each performance is amazing. My friend said last night "she is just mesmerising to watch". Love the new stuff and can't wait to get the new album. I have seen a fair few concerts and I can definitely say she is unique.
- Vicki, London, 12/04/2007 17:10
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I attended this concert and broadly agree with the above review save there is no mention of Beverley's sheer emotion and energy. I have been a Beverley fan for a few years now and her live performances just get better and better. The new songs were warmly received and I cannot wait for the album. The brass section is new and adds to the richness of the band sound and I hope Beverley will have the brass section for her summer festivals dates. Beverley is a class act and her new album should not be missed. And finally she is so goddam sexy!
- David, London UK, 12/04/2007 12:16
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