The anticipation was electric as I stepped into the Apollo Theatre on the evening of 9th October, a full decade since my initial encounter with King Krule's music as a young girl on the roof of my childhood home with my older brother. He introduced me to a sanctuary of secrets, where records whispered tales of rebellion and heartache. I, the eager apprentice, yearned to unlock the mysteries of coolness. So, I delved into his music collection, an enchanting library of sounds, hoping that these harmonies could bridge the gap between the worlds we inhabited, introducing me to the wonderful weird world of Archy Marshall. The palpable buzz in the air, a shared feeling of long-awaited catharsis, seemed to unite the diverse audience, making this night at the Apollo an experience poised to be etched into memory.
The evening commenced with the support act, Sarah Meth, whose performance was nothing short of remarkable despite a few hiccups with the sound system. Her sound seamlessly weaved with the overall atmosphere, both her and Krule delivering almost guttural sounding music.
Enter Archy Marshall. His stage presence was magnetic, a fusion of enigmatic charm and raw intensity. His vocals possessed a haunting quality that could send shivers down one's spine, with their raspy depth a distinct beacon in the dark expanse of sound. The emotional depth was a profound journey through time, nostalgia, and raw sentiment. It was an experience that began with the opening notes of "Perfecto Miserable," one of his most haunting and melancholic tracks, and my personal favourite from "Man Alive!" Right from the start, it set the tone for an evening that would tug at the heartstrings and make memories flood back.
The setlist was near perfect, showcasing a balanced blend of newer tracks from "Space Heavy" while also honouring classics. It was a journey through his musical evolution, punctuated by the inclusion of the cult favourite "Rock Bottom," an unreleased gem that paid homage to the individuals who form a pivotal part of his artistic circle, an ode to the elusive sphere surrounding Krule, enriching the concert experience with a sense of deep connection and authenticity and a nod to his roots, right here in the heart of London, just one train south of the apollo.
In this carefully crafted setlist, King Krule masterfully balanced his older, beloved tracks with the new, creating an experience that was equal parts nostalgia and innovation. As the concert closed, the crowd was left in awe of the sonic journey they had experienced. Each song unfolded as a tapestry of sound, an experience that transcended music. It was a sonic landscape that enveloped the audience, each layer unravelling a story of untamed emotion. The twangy, mournful notes of the saxophone added a hauntingly beautiful dimension, deepening the connection between the music and us, inches below but sonically deeply intertwined. Amidst this sonic whirlwind, George Bass, the unsung hero on the drums, emerged as the linchpin that held this musical odyssey together. His rhythmic precision wove a hypnotic thread, guiding the band's passion, ensuring the audience was carried away on a turbulent but mesmerising journey.
Miel's own images.
The encore, however, was where the concert truly reached its emotional zenith. As King Krule took the stage one last time, the opening notes of "Out Getting Ribs" resonated through the venue, the soundtrack to my formative years. The tears welled up as the nostalgic and heartfelt lyrics reverberated through the space.
The lighting design was impeccable, coexisting with the rhythm and sound to create a full-body experience. The lighting transitions synchronised visuals complemented the beats and emotions conveyed in the music, enhancing the overall concert experience. King Krule's music, as I had always known, held an exceptional power to evoke emotions, but in this live performance, it was taken to new heights.
Throughout the concert, it was evident how King Krule's music resonated emotionally with the audience and the profound connection they felt to his music. It did justice to my younger self, bringing back cherished memories and connecting them with the present. It's a performance that will be tattooed into the hearts of those who had the privilege to be there, and a testament to his enduring artistry.
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