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.
Featured image: Isabelle Dargue A powerful new film documenting Manchester’s Lights Up movement will premiere at The Savoy Cinema on 9 March as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. Lights Up is a free, community-led event organised by Bee Pedal Ready and Station South in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University, We Are Cycling UK, MCRActive,…
Featured image: David Lindsay Manchester illustrator Stanley Chow will return to the decks for a special guest vinyl DJ set at The Garden Bar in Chorlton later this month. Chow, known for his distinctive geometric minimalist portraits of figures from Manchester and wider pop culture, is returning to his roots with an exclusive free DJ…
Following the passing of iconic Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mountfield, there have been growing calls for him to be immortalised in a way that reflects both his cultural impact and the deep affection shared between the musician and his home city. GRIT Studios has answered the calls from fans, announcing plans…
Featured image: Evie Peattie Often overshadowed in popular narratives by the heritage houses of Paris or Milan, London’s fashion ecosystem has long traded on creative freedom. As London Fashion Week prepares for its 42nd year, running from the 19 to 23 February, the British capital is poised to reaffirm its reputation not simply as a…
Leave a reply