Live Review
Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton
Considering he is something of a new kid on the block, singer/songwriter Michael Kiwanuka looks as much at ease on stage as any veteran of the folk-acoustic circuit.
His smooth soulful voice, easy manner and versatile use of music styles gives him the look of someone who has been doing this most of his life and yet still practising in his bedroom while allowing everyone to listen.
Kiwanuka evokes an early Motown sound in some of his songs such as Tell Me a Tale, Rest and I'll Get Along from his new album Home Again.
He slips easily between tunes with a reggae flavour and even adds some country style sounds with Always Waiting.
Kiwanuka is an excellent musician with a chameleon voice that has the ability to move between genres while keeping his smooth distinctive soulfulness.
He swaps guitars to easily move from acoustic to a jazz funk-style then to a heavier beat which was reminiscent of Santana.
He is without doubt though at his best when singing with just his acoustic guitar such as in Home Again, where he displays a quality which brings to mind the great Ray Charles.
Michael now moves on his tour to Dublin Academy on May 19; Sheffield Leadmill on May 21; Cambridge Junction May 22 and London's 02 Shepherd Bush Empire May 23. If you get a chance to see him take it he is great live.
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