Live

M Huncho: O2 Academy Brixton, London 22/3/22

The mysterious man in the mask is enjoying something of a purple patch right now. COVID and the numerous lockdowns meant that he was denied the chance to tour his excellent "Huncholini The 1st" record, but he's kept himself busy in the last couple of years…

While his live shows had to be put on the back burner for what felt like an eternity, his studio output has been impressive, with a string of tracks in 2021 and 2022 and a new album on its way.

M Huncho, who has been careful to keep his identity under wraps and has always performed in a mask, certainly knows how to draw a crowd, and there was no shortage of special guests through the night. It opened with an impressive rendition of "Take Away The Pain", performed on a platform towering over the sold-out crowd before the rapper swaggered down to be close to the crowd. An astonishing freestyle demonstrated that Huncho is at the top of his game.

He was joined by Nafe Smallz for a performance of "Thumb", while Potter Payper and Unknown T follow him on the stage. Also putting in an appearance was Headie One, who collaborated on the recent single "Warzone". There was huge energy in the room as the duo tore through the track, while grime heavyweight Giggs drew a huge reaction when he emerged to link up with Huncho on "Lean".

The night was a chance to showcase the artist's impressive catalogue, but also an opportunity to usher in a new era. Partway through the set, he swapped over his famous mask in favour of a new design, announcing that he was looking to the future and a new direction. This explains why the tour was branded the Farewell Tour and suggests that there are exciting times ahead for one of the genre's most established artists.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke