Dizraeli

One of the best live shows I've had the pleasure to be at in recent years. The songs, the energy, the musicianship, the groove, the "golden crowd of humans" - it all added up to something truly special! Dizraeli is a first-rate frontman from the off - whether he's passionately bringing theatrical spoken word to life, rapping some of his best verses yet or screaming and writhing like a man possessed by the beat and the energy of the crowd - this is more than just a gig, it's an expertly crafted experience of heart, soul, rhythm, harmony, therapy, mindfulness, life, the universe and everything. His latest band are perfectly matched to the constructed chaos of his new The Unmaster album, with frenetic, afro-influenced drum grooves, bowel breaking synth basslines, jazzy keys and sublime multi-instrumentalist Hannah Davis on backing vocals, vibraphone and more! Having been a fan of Dizraeli in his many guises and bands for many years, it's great to see he's still pushing himself forward and making some of the best music of his career and providing audiences with something truly special live. In Brightonm as well as all the genre-defying new music, we were lucky enough to be treated to an acapella of Take Me Dancing where the band were joined by Cate Ferris for a semi Small Gods reunion. To hear hundreds of people singing in unison during a tumultuous week for British history, literally gave me goosebumps!

Disraeli and DJ Downlow at Epic Dalston. It was a great show, Disraeli knew perfectly how to get the crowd moving. The venue was personal and lovely. Downlow provided great adaptive backing beats, while Disraeli rapped tune after tune, using a single drumstick and symbol, as well as a reverb tool to keep the songs interesting. At one point he dedicated a song to his friend, who had been arrested, and in his honour passed a bottle of rum around the audience. He finished with a song he had made with the small gods, a great ending to a great gig.

The energy is astonishing, the beat mesmerising and the lyrics ever intriguing. Dizraeli finished off an evening of fine, witty and touching poetry with barnstorming set that left one breathless. This guy has a wonderful talent and is backed up by a first rate band