31st May - 100 Club, London.
Review by Tom Burris
It’s always an effort to get across London during rush hour but it’s always worth it for a gig. Not only was I excited about going to see Jake Bugg, but it was also my first time at The 100 Club. It’s an ideal small venue; a bar at each end with the stage close enough to make for an intimate show.
As the room started to fill out, a striking young woman jumped on stage and belted out an a capella song whilst rhythmically bashing the microphone. This instantly engaged the audience drawing them closer to the stage. I came to discover it was Natalie Findlay, who was soon joined on stage with her guitarist and drummer. I was surprised by their Blues influence for an Indie band, but I was impressed all the same.
After a fair wait, Jake came on stage so I shuffled to the centre of the crowd to get a good view. Starting with some soothing acoustic tunes accompanied by his dulcet singing voice, the show was brought up to speed with some more rockabilly-folk songs. This was closely followed by the single Trouble Town, which received an immediate reaction from the crowd, with its familiarity meaning they could sing along.
Jake continued with Country Song, fitting in his latest single Lightening Bolt in-between other new material. The crowd hushed to hear Jake finish with Saffron, which really highlighted Jake’s distinctive folky vocal tones. Luckily, I got the chance to have a quick chat with Mr. Bugg after the gig; he’s a really nice lad and I look forward to seeing him again at this year's Secret Garden Party.
After supporting Michael Kiwanuka on tour, Jake is back in the UK with solo shows and festival appearances lined up across the summer. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing much more of Jake next year, perhaps even on the BBC's Sound of 2013!