Live

Angie Stone: Indigo at the O2, Greenwhich, London 15/3/23

One thing that's been abundantly clear in recent years - whenever Angie Stone performs in the capital, London shows up! Before lockdown, I was lucky to see her sell out The Roundhouse and Indigo at the O2, and the neo-soul legend remains a draw in the post-Covid world.

Stone announced two dates in the capital; even a tube strike couldn't stop the crowds from making their way to Greenwich North - not the easiest place to get to when the Jubilee Line's down.

UK soul icon Omar opened for her, putting in the flawless performance fans have come to expect. Those who navigated the labyrinth of buses to get there early were treated to soulful versions of "The Man", "Be Thankful" and "There's Nothing Like This". It's telling that Omar's the go-to artist for top stars on these shores - over the years I've seen him alongside Erykah Badu, Robert Glasper, Eric Benet and Angie Stone, and he always delivers.

There was a welcome surprise when Ms Stone's son - with none other than D'Angelo - took to the stage before her set. The 24-year-old goes by the name Swayvo Twain and is one to watch. He took the bold decision to cover his dad's early hit "Shit, Damn, Motherfucker", and his 21st-century reimagining breathes new life into a stone-cold classic.

The Indigo had packed out considerably when Ms Stone appeared and showed why she has such a devoted following. An excellent "Green Grass Vapours" helped get the show going, but she confessed she wasn't feeling her best and spent much of the performance seated. Illness aside, the quality of her catalogue ensured it was a performance worth catching, with "Brotha", "No More Rain" and, of course, "Wish I Didn't Miss You" among the highlights. Her albums remain timeless and many younger artists could learn plenty from Ms Stone. Expect her to draw a crowd next time she's over as well.

WORDS & PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke