Matthew E White at the Roundhouse

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew E White brings a little bit of Virginia to London, as he puts on his spectacular show at the city’s beautiful Roundhouse. With two successful albums, Fresh Blood being his most recent release, the jazz-rock genius’ gig is a brilliant way to spend a Saturday night.

As soon as White and his band take to the stage, the vast hall fills with a beautiful silence. Swaying back and forth, the long-haired singer instantly steals everybody’s hearts as his distinctive, deep voice fills every corner of the venue, sending shivers down the spine. His angelic vocals and guitar envelope the room in the opener Tranquillity, bouncing against the many pillars, with the crowd listening carefully and watching in awe.

From jazzy masterpieces like One of These Days and Vision to western-meets-surf pieces such as Fruit Trees, every song is unique, each one taking the audience on a different journey. Despite the sombre nature of his work, when it comes to getting the crowd pumped up White does not hesitate and soon, the once quiet crowd are rocking their bodies and feeling the music.

The audience are in for a treat, as he invites on stage several guest acts, including Hackney’s brilliant, all-female group, Deep Throat Choir. Repetitive, dirty guitar riffs, hypnotising vocals and beautiful harmonies take over. The energy in the room is impeccable, the passion on stage contagious, with the dancing crowd now abandoning their seats. Even when things quiet down with ballads such as Circle Round the Sun, the vibe soon picks up again, as White shuffles his feet and shakes his locks to the catchy Steady Pace and Rock & Roll Is Cold.

As the band exits, the applause is deafening – everybody wants more. Returning for three encore songs, White and his band finish off with power and impact. With a rendition of his newest single, Cool Out and ending the night with the classic, Feeling Good Is Good Enough, White’s compelling performance leaves the audience in a tranquil void, truly showing the power of music.

Naomi Schanen
Photo: Mike Bamford

For further information about Matthew E White and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Rock & Roll Is Cold here: