The Milk at Union Chapel

From performing in working men’s clubs to sold-out venues in London, R’n’B and soul group The Milk are a force to be reckoned with. Citing Bill Withers and The Isley Brothers as sources of inspiration, this band put their heart and soul into their lyrics as well as their performance.

Performing inside a dimly lit, smoky chapel, the group began with Trouble Gonna Bring Me Down off their 2015 album Favourite Worry. The track has a great, jazzy feel to it, but was a bit lacklustre as an opener. A six-piece orchestra accompanied The Milk, comprised of violin, trumpet, saxophone, flute, trombone, and bass, helping to boost their soulful aura.

The performance faced a slow beginning with their choice of songs and a lack of interaction with the audience. It wasn’t until they played Wanderlust – with its gospel-like and ethereal sound – that they had the crowd in the palms of their hands, moving and grooving to every beat. The magic of the band, however, lies not only with their lead singer Rick Nunn’s incredible vocal range, but the way they weave one song into another, creating a vibrant and continuous feel.

The group excels in their diverse range of songs. Lose That Way sounds straight off a 50s doo-wop album, demonstrating their beautiful harmonies, whereas B Roads has a funky beat, and a more 60s feel. They ended with What Did I Do To My Love, which had the whole audience up on their feet and singing.

Despite their muddled start, this is a group that exudes talent. To some their name is new, but their style is one that is developed, and one that will be long-lasting. The Milk show what it means to be a contemporary musical group with older, soulful roots.

Samantha Katz

For further information about The Milk and future events visit here.

Watch the video for B-Roads here: