Live

Trombone Shorty: O2 Academy2 Birmingham 20/5/22

There are few figures on the modern music scene with the versatility of New Orleans stalwart Troy Andrews. Known to the world as Trombone Shorty, the 36-year-old is well established in the jazz, funk, blues, hip-hop and rock worlds. Combined with an incredible group of musicians in the form of Orleans Avenue, he delivered a standout performance in Birmingham.

Throughout the show, he burned off more calories than the average marathon runner, switching seemingly effortlessly between his namesake trombone and the trumpet, while also showcasing himself as a singer who would blow most contemporaries out of the water.

It seems that whatever he tries his hand at turns to gold, and his latest album "Lifted" reveals he's an artist at the top of his game. It's clear that performing brings Andrews pure joy, and it's hard not to get caught up in that.

From the start, he pours his heart and soul into the show, with "It Ain't No Use" an early triumph in a set full of triumphs. "Got Me Feeling Good" well and truly lives up to its title, and the watertight team onstage doesn't miss a beat.

The packed-out room is treated to some excellent solos, not least from Andrews himself who keeps the audience transfixed with his lung-busting prowess. "Hurricane Season" is a phenomenal track and it loses none of its power in front of an appreciative crowd.

Andrews deservedly has a reputation for delivering high octane shows, and on the evidence of this performance will remain a vital live performer for many years to come.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke