‘The most expensive birthday party I ever threw in my life!’. The words of South London Hip-Hop sensation Loyle Carner at his one night special at the Royal Albert Hall on 6th October. The performance, which reimagined the Mercury Award nominated album ‘Hugo’, was a captivating show of his biggest hits, including rare gems as well as an audience led rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ to celebrate the star’s 29th.
Carner spared no expense, with a huge statement light piece to mimic the sun creating ecclesiastical visuals, furthering the atmospheric beauty of his most emotionally charged songs. Such scenery additionally enticed the audience when harsh red lighting made statements during ‘Blood On My Nikes’. The singer invited ex Camden Youth MP Athian Akec on stage to perform his poignant speech on knife crime which is mixed into the song’s end. The activist continued his usual message with thoughts on hope, particularly surrounding young climate strikers and artists whilst Carner sat watching, seemingly inspired by such moving words.
Politics is no strange feature in the work of the three-time Brit nominee, with all three of his albums encompassing powerful yet catchy verses on the most controversial issues of the day. From feelings of confusion surrounding being mixed race and animosity towards the treatment of young people of colour, Carner perfectly expresses his emotions through arguably some of the best lyricism on the UK’s Hip-Hop circuit today.
Despite the aptly political climate, Loyle Carner’s performance at the Royal Albert Hall embraced themes of hope and love. The sharing of intimate stories about his son during ‘Homerton’, where it was revealed the show was being recorded for a live album, followed essential notes on mental health. This was incorporated into the concert’s end with the star’s biggest hit: ‘Ottolenghi’ featuring close friend and co-writer Jordan Rakei. Carner told his fans to ‘leave everything in yesterday’, finishing with his iconic phrase, ‘take these words and go forwards’ to round off a heartfelt evening of music.
