Noah Kahan
O2 Kentish Town
If you haven't heard of Noah Kahan, you probably aren't on TikTok because you can barely scroll without hearing the rousing 'Stick Season'. His folk inspired music is beautiful and his lyrics are so heartfelt and moving, it's no surprise he's quickly building a dedicated fanbase. There's no doubt that Noah is certainly going to keep reaching new levels of success so I'm honoured to have watched him in this fairly intimate venue. Noah's music is filled with raw emotion and this London show got to showcase his stunning musicianship, and his authentic connection with the audience that few artists can achieve.
The intimate setting of Kentish Town provided the perfect backdrop for Noah’s unique blend of folk and indie-pop, allowing his lyrics to take centre stage. Opening with 'Northern Attitude,' Noah immediately set the tone for the evening – honest, vulnerable, and utterly captivating. His voice, both powerful and tender, resonated through the venue, enveloping the audience in a warm embrace.
In between songs, Noah took a moment to reflect on just how far he’s come. He shared a story about his first London show back in 2018 at The Social, where he played to a crowd of just 77 people. To see him now, commanding the stage at Kentish Town with a packed house, was a testament to his journey and the love his fans have for him. The way he spoke about it, with genuine amazement and gratitude, made the night feel even more special– like we were all part of this incredible rise.
One of the standout moments was his performance of 'She Calls Me Back,' where the energy in the room was electric. The crowd sang along to every word, creating a beautiful, shared experience that felt almost like a conversation between Noah and the audience. This was followed by the hauntingly beautiful 'False Confidence,' where his raw vocal delivery sent chills down our spines.
The setlist was a perfect mix of fan favourites and deeper cuts, showcasing Noah’s growth as an artist. His live rendition of 'Godlight' was a particular highlight, with the crowd’s harmonies blending with his voice in a way that was nothing short of magical. Later in the set, 'Stick Season' brought the house down, with its poignant lyrics and infectious melody echoing through the venue as the crowd sang along in unison.
Noah’s authenticity shone through in every song, especially during 'New Perspective,' where his storytelling prowess was on full display. He has an uncanny ability to articulate the complexities of emotion and the human experience, leaving the audience feeling deeply moved and connected.
The band’s tight, cohesive performance was the perfect complement to Noah’s vocals, adding depth and richness to the live renditions of his songs. The sound quality at Kentish Town was superb, allowing every nuance of the performance to be appreciated.
Closing the night with 'Homesick', Noah left us all in awe, wrapping up a set that was as introspective as it was uplifting. Overall, Noah Kahan’s concert at Kentish Town was a masterclass in live performance. His ability to create such an intimate, heartfelt experience in a live setting is a testament to his talent and dedication as an artist. This was more than just a concert– it was a profound experience that will resonate with those in attendance for a long time. If you have the chance to see Noah Kahan live, take it. You won’t be disappointed.
★★★★★
Reviewed on Monday 20 November 2023 by Olivia
Photo credit: Burak Cingi / Redferns
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