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Michael Kiwanuka: Cambridge Corn Exchange 11/5/22

Back in March 2020, I was blessed to see Michael Kiwanuka open his "Kiwanuka" tour, blissfully unaware of what was to come. His third album would go on to deservedly win the Mercury Prize and cement his place as one of the foremost UK artists of his generation.

But the tour didn't go to plan, with illness forcing him to reschedule a number of dates, with the pandemic subsequently torpedoing efforts to get underway again. As a result, many of those at Cambridge Corn Exchange had purchased their tickets nearly three years earlier after a frustrating delay.

But good things come to those prepared to wait, and from the opening notes of "Piano Joint”, it was clear that Kiwanuka was keen to make up for lost time.

His records have a beautiful soulful intimacy, and this is not lost despite the size of the venue. "Black Man in a White World" had the same energy in front of a capacity crowd as on record, while "Hero" deservedly drew a huge reaction.

Kiwanuka's silky voice would light up any arena, and the people of Cambridge were not left wanting, with the singer and guitarist backed brilliantly by an accomplished band and backing singers.

One highlight from his set was the stunning "Solid Ground", which allowed him to draw brilliantly from a massive emotional range. 
It was little surprise that the audience wouldn't let him leave without a fight, and his lengthy encore rightly drew the applause it warranted. 
"Cold Little Heart", one of his most recognised tracks, was left until late on and was performed flawlessly.

With the tour finally able to go ahead after an unwelcome hiatus, Kiwanuka showed that he is at the height of his powers and delighted to be back on stage. A must-see artist.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke