Live

Yazmin Lacey + Dave Okumu: The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm, London 20/4/23

Yazmin Lacey has long been a massive talent with a big future ahead of her. "Morning Matters" was one of the records I played heavily through the first few months of lockdown, and this year's "Voice Notes" showcases an excellent and maturing artist.

So her inclusion on the bill alongside the brilliant Dave Okumu made the show at The Roundhouse's In The Round Festival made it an essential show to catch. The intimate setting that comes with converting the venue into a seated arena perfectly suited one of the country's foremost jazz/soul voices and her show didn't disappoint.

A note-perfect rendition of "Late Night People" was among the highlights of a top-quality set, which also included a brilliant version of "Bad Company". If you haven't checked out the album yet, give it a listen, Yazmin Lacey is one of the most compelling vocalists around at the moment.

After a triumphant start, it was over to Dave Okumu, who has lent his talents as an instrumentalist and producer to some incredible artists, including Amy Winehouse and the great Tony Allen. He is a striking presence onstage, accompanied by a full choir donning robes and an eclectic mix of musicians who delivered a unique and powerful set.

Just days earlier he and the Seven Generations had released LP "I Came From Love", a powerful collection of tracks that has rightly been widely praised.

The collective were in excellent voice throughout his hour-long set, which was delivered with an intensity that many artists struggle to produce and maintain.

Visually it looked phenomenal, with sound to match. Vocalist Anthony Joseph joined for an emotional "My Negritude" and "Scenes" from the latest album.

In The Round is a welcome addition to the London live music scene, having hosted some excellent musicians last year, and it continues to go from strength to strength with nights like this.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke