Bat for Lashes at Shepherd’s Bush Empire

14^th August 2013

Francis Davies

Francis Davies

14 August 2013

Bat for Lashes, stage name of Natasha Khan, appeared at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire on 13^th August. She played a combination of old and more recent songs, demonstrating her notable talent.

Her strong voice is well suited to the large hall of the Shepherd’s Bush Empire. It has an eerie quality to it that she seemed fully aware of, putting it to good use with the addition of subtle microphone effects. This was especially striking in songs like her 2009 single Sleep Alone.

There was plenty of energy to Khan’s performance and by the way she moved around the stage it was clear she was having a good time. She also demonstrated skills other than her vocal range, setting herself up at a piano to perform Horse and I. There is an enjoyable mixture of elements to Khan’s repertoire, with contemporary sounds playing off more traditional tones.

Bat for Lashes has a good feel for her music and a solid grasp of what she wants to deliver in her live performance. She doesn’t fall into the trap of overusing vocal effects, as many artists are prone to do these days. Khan has a good voice and she knows how to use it. Bat for Lashes might not blow you away, but she’ll definitely make you sit up and pay attention.

Francis Davies
Photos: ScannerFM

For further information and future events visit Bat for Lashes’ website here.

Watch the video for Lilies here: