Live

Blxst: Electric Ballroom, Camden Town, London 25/10/21

If there were ever any doubts about how big a deal Blxst's debut UK shows were, the long queue snaking around Camden put them to rest.
One of 2020's biggest breakout stars, the 26-year-old made waves with his debut EP "No Love Lost" and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in hip-hop.

Electric Ballroom was the setting for his opening London performances, with the singer-rapper selling out two successive nights, demand massively outstripping supply. Even before the doors opened, a seemingly endless queue stretched through the middle of Camden as an enthusiastic crowd got ready to welcome him.

Nathan Hector, S1mba and Wes Nelson were on hand to keep the packed-out audience entertained ahead of the main event, with the trio on good form energising expectant fans.

When Blxst, real name Matthew Burdette, bounded on the stage, he showed exactly why he's built up such a following on these shores.
"Wrong or Right" and "Searching" translated well to the stage, while "F*** Boys" drew one of the biggest cheers of the night.

The artist's career trajectory is looking very promising, with a feature on Nas' "King's Disease 2" - one of the most highly-rated albums of the year - one of the many feathers in his cap.

Blxst confidently bounded through tracks including "Pop Out" and "Pressure", assisted by an incredible backing singer who hopefully won't be in the background for long.

"Overrated" was a triumphant end to his set before he returned for an encore with UK trio WSTRN. They gave a high-octane performance of the group's hit "Textin'", and brought the show to a close with style.

Given how the past 18 months has shaped up, this is likely to be the first of many trips Blxst makes to the UK. On this evidence, he can expect a warm reception with each visit.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke