L oyle Carner
02 Academy 03/08/23
Birmingham UK
Claire H. Head Insomnia Photographer
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Live Review
After an excruciating four years since Loyle Carner graced the stage in Birmingham, the London based rapper made his long awaited return - playing to a sold out crowd.
Accompanying Corner on his hugo UK & Ireland run was Birmingham-born R&B artist, Wesley Joseph. Discreetly strolling onto the stage momentarily after the lights dimmed, Joseph kicked the night off with a bang. Spanning through tracks from his latest offering Glow, the multitalented musician had the crowd in the palm of his hand. Playing to a sold out crowd in a venue that seemingly held a special place in his heart was evident, even more so through his punchy, yet passionate performance. Addressing the crowd, Joseph recalls: “sing along if you know the words and if you don’t, keep vibin’”. In short, Wesley Joseph proved to be the perfect warmup for Carner, as he came, saw and conquered in his short, but sweet thirty minute set.
With the crowd warmed up and in position, all eyes were on the stage in anticipation for Loyle Carner’s grande appearance. Armed with a live backing band and phenomenal lights show, Carner stormed onto the stage and received a staggering roar of applause from his devoted fans. Launching into opening number ‘Hate’; a rage-fuelled track denoting anger and injustice, it became apparent that he wasn’t messing about. His stage presence was bold, yet endearing and was considered for the entirety of the twenty-song set. Fan favourite track ‘You Don’t Know’ was featured a mere three songs in, and did its job of ramping up the energy amongst the 3,000 odd bodies crammed onto the dance floor. Famously known and loved for his raw lyricism, heart-wrenching ‘Blood On My Nikes’ - a track highlighting the dangers of knife crime, was a real stand out moment of the set. The poignant song silenced the packed out venue, only confirming that Loyle Carner is currently without a doubt at his artistic best. Men’s mental health; and the importance of it, was another topic that was worked into the show which was done in a tasteful and (in true Carner style), rather poetic manner. His ability to build genuine connections with his audience gave the show a more intimate and personal feel. An evening in Birmingham with Loyle Carner could only be described as energetic, moving but above all, like a catch up with an old friend.
