London’s Hope and Anchor, on a hotter-than-normal June night was the stage for LOUD WOMEN to host four path-breaking artists Ch’Lu, Helen McCookerybook, Kat Five and Juju.
Juju kicked off the night with a gritty alt-rock/dark pop set – her powerful vocals backed by a powerhouse three-piece band. Fresh off the release of new single ‘Pathogen‘, her influences of PJ Harvey, Kate Bush, and Florence and The Machine were clear. There was even a hint of Billie Eilish‘s melancholic edge, if she ever ventured into rock territory. One to watch, for sure!
In a dazzling display of alt-pop sorcery, East London-based artist Kat Five sashayed onto the stage like a punk Stevie Nicks, captivating the audience with her unique blend of dark electronica and electric vocals. Highlights included latest single ‘Switch‘, which Kat explained was about having to switch yourself awake, and a hauntingly beautiful cover of Massive Attack‘s ‘Teardrop’. Kat ended with a festival-ready finale ‘Forest,’ where an enigmatic woodland fairy wandered through the audience, casting spells as Kat sang clicked silver branches together!
indie-country-punk legend Helen McCookerybook was next. She noted that she usually plays alone, but that had the good fortune to be joined by her friends and fellow musicians Robert Rotifer on acoustic guitar, and Ruth Tidmarsh on bass, and background vocals further swelled by none other than Gina Birch of The Raincoats fame. The extra harmonies added real depth to the songs, many of which were from her current album Showtunes from the Shadows. Helen wrapped things up with ‘Three Cheers for Toytown,’ an upbeat ode to troublesome neighbours that resonated with humour and warmth. Her live set felt no less than an intimate gathering of old friends who share secrets through song and it was a privilege to witness.
British/Romanian multilingual classical guitarist and singer Ch’Lu (formerly Camilla Mathias) walked onto stage barefoot, armed with a classical guitar and loop pedal and proceeded to enthral with her own blend of art-pop and other-worldly electronica. Songs such as ‘Monsoon Breeze’, latest single ‘Synergy’, and ‘The Silence’ weaved together raw beats and multilingual lyrics. On a different note, her viral hit ‘I’m Not the Type to Sit and Swipe‘ drew cheers and laughter from the crowd.
All in all a wonderfully varied musical night, showcasing a wide spectrum of talented LOUD WOMEN.
Next up on the LOUD WOMEN calendar in London: 12 July we’re back at the Hope & Anchor to host Gaydar, Gay Skeleton Club and Bitchin’ Hour – Tickets
Also check out …