Featured image: Darcy Hamand
It’s been 20 years since the release of Amy Winehouse’s debut album, Frank. To commemorate this, The Blues Kitchen in Manchester hosted one of their legendary Wednesday night events.
We arrive to the venue at around 7:30 to get our wristbands. The downstairs bar is already bustling with activity, yet we are served swiftly and efficiently by the friendly bar team. As we head upstairs, the atmosphere is building in the low-lit performance room – a much-needed contrast to the cold and grey Manchester night.
Songs by the likes of Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu can be heard through the speakers, which feels very fitting for the jazzy ambiance. The room is full, but never feels overly crowded or out of control.
The performance begins at 8:30 and we’re instantly impressed by the band, which is fronted by vocalist, Anna, who possesses endless charisma and a stage presence that instantly brings the room to life. Her soulful voice emulates Amy’s, without ever feeling like a parody.
They handle their tribute with respect and an obvious passion for Amy’s jazz-inspired style. For me, the standout renditions are ‘You Send Me Flying’ and ‘(There Is) No Greater Love’. Throughout, the audience is made to feel included and encouraged to dance and sing along.
After a short interval, the band ventures away from Frank to play some of Amy’s biggest hits for their second set. Most notably (and unsurprisingly), ‘Tears Dry On Their Own’, is a huge hit with the crowd; the band’s adlibs and experimentation enhance the already wonderful song. In Anna’s own words, there is “a gorgeous vibe in the room”.
It truly feels like a loving preservation of Amy’s art and the crowd is united by their admiration for the artist. Closing out with ‘Valerie’, it seems as though the band is having as much fun as the audience. We leave with lifted spirits and a sense of hope that Amy and her music aren’t at risk of being forgotten any time soon.
Whether it was the £6 cocktails or the dazzling performances, Amy’s presence was definitely felt in the room.
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