Soul Rebels, The Wardrobe - Leeds, Friday 17 May 2013

By Mel McClellan

Having never been to The Wardrobe before, I thought I would arrive early to soak in the atmosphere before the gig started. Although, early is an understatement, it turned out that nearly two hours early was a little optimistic.

However, this turned out to be a good thing as I was able to see a couple of sound checks beforehand, so it was like an intimate performance.

 There was many staff members/managers rushing about trying to make sure things were ready on time and preparing for what, I felt, was going to be a great night.

 Eventually, at around 9.15pm, people started arriving. They bought their drinks at the bar and took their places by the stage and its surrounding areas. I am no good at estimation, but would say there was between 200-250 of us there.

 The first act to grace the stage was Homecut, a Beat Boxer from the UK. To be honest, I have never really been a fan of beat boxing. I have seen it before on TV talent shows, but not really thought much about it. I heard Homecut’s sound check before and was impressed then. But, with the atmosphere and 200 people in the room, it made his performance even better. Covering songs from the likes of Justin Timberlake’s ‘Sexy Back’ to Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’ made sure that everyone’s music tastes were taken into consideration. As well as his amazing talent, I spoke to him briefly after the show and he seemed such a nice man too. He told me that he had an amazing night, and thanked me for the support he had received.

The next act to perform was the one I was looking forward to seeing the most. This was Fayth Hope, a new up and coming Soul singer from the US. In fact ironically, Birmingham, Alabama. Fayth has an amazing voice and made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. She entertained the audience, not only with her singing, but her interaction. She also made sure she sang Happy Birthday to Lubi Jovanovic, who organised the event. Fayth’s performance of James Brown’s ‘It’s a Man’s World’ was absolutely amazing and just wowed the audience. Everyone I spoke to afterwards said how amazing that song was. Apparently, Lubi told me that this was Fayth’s first ever performance in the UK, so what a place to start, right here in Leeds! You can see an interview with Fayth in Love Music Magazine.

 The final performance was Wara, a great Afro-beat, soul, funk and Latin band from London. They kind of reminded me of the ‘Vengaboys’ to be honest, but in a good way! At least their energetic, and catchy tunes filled the dance floor and started a huge party, so their mission was a successful one. They definitely were worth watching and I would see them and the others again knowing that I would have a great time.

During the evening, I wondered around and spoke to several people about their expectations, and what they thought about it. Although most of the people I spoke to

were really positive about the night. There was a group of women who said it was not what they expected. Although they were enjoying it, they thought it would be a little more vibrant and exciting. But, unfortunately for them, it was too soothing and laid back. However, another group of people I spoke with loved it and said they were really pleased to have been there.

All in all, I thought it was a great night and a pleasure to have had the opportunity to attend. Lubi should be proud of himself for organising such a great event. Pat on the back from me!