Earlier this week, a collective of artists and fans alike gathered together to celebrate the release of Big Man Zest’s single, 'Who I Am', and to raise funds for the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust.
Held in London venue Avalon, one and all walked into an easy, welcoming environment. Kayleigh Loudmouth hosted the event alongside MTV Base’s infamous Kat. The crowd were kept entertained by some of London’s finest DJ’s, a few UK acts as well as Zest himself.
The first act was Funky House singer Superstar Selah, followed by East London female duo, Addictive. Nominated for two Mixtape Awards, the girls definitely wowed the crowd. Cuppcake performed her cover of Floetry’s 'Say Yes' and her new Dubstep tune 'Robot'. Veteran Terri Walker also graced the stage with a couple of new songs with Beatnik, and Natalie May came to strut her stuff by singing and promoting her new track 'Closer'.
Fr3e, Pepstar and Lioness all also took to the stage and showed the audience their stuff, receiving great feedback.
Social Writers were cordially invited to the first summer instalment of the flamboyant Fash Bash Sound Clash. Fash Bash in association with Manhattan Mondays returned with a spirited bang at the plush Shoreditch House on Monday 14th June and fash basher's from every chic corner in London, were there in full effect.
The night itself had a great vibe and the amazing 12 Tone Brass band, made it almost impossible for anyone not to immerse themselves in the incredible live music. XO man also made his present felt with an equally impressive performance and the Don Gargon that is DJ Nikki Beatnik played a dread set on the Beatnik sound system, a definite winner amongst the hand picked crowd.
With food, wine and a swimming pool as the centre piece of the picture esque venue, the night was sure to be a guranteed success and a rather fetching one at that. If Monday is anything to go by, we can't wait until the next Fash Bash dosage!
The 29th Afro Hair and Beauty Show 2010 took place this year in its new home at the Business Design Centre, Islington. Coming from the 11 year old girl who used to earn her weekly allowance through sweeping up multiple hair trimmings off of her mother's kitchen floor, when over the weekend the kitchen transformed into a buzzing Afro Caribbean hair salon; the Afro Hair and Beauty Show was a subject often spoken with much excitement. Needless to say as a child, I wished that one day I would be lucky enough to witness the mecca of all hair shows.
Fast forward to 2010 and my wish was finally answered. Whilst I can admit not visiting Islington's business centre prior to the hair show, I think I can safely assume, the venue has never witnessed such an exodus of people before. However; as the old age saying goes, "quantity is not quality" something of which rang loudly in my head as I trailed around the entire circumference of the building. Maybe it was my high expectations or maybe the stories I had once heard about 'the' Afro hair an beauty show, had lead my imagination to run wild.
Whatever the reason, I was slightly disappointed with what I had come across. Reminiscent of the shouting , hard sales technique, one would stumble upon in Brixton Market, surprisingly this was the attitude of many stall holders at the event. I can remember being mildly harassed (to put it politely) to purchase a special offer on a relaxer kit, where I was offered to buy two for the price of one, at the sale of £5. The stall holder of this particular brand was so forceful, my paranoia took centre stage as I started to question how noticeable my re-growth looked to the naked eye. Rest assured by a friend who insisted my hair looked perfectly fine, I would later discover that he used the same 'winning' technique with every potential customer.
Nevertheless, there were a few things that met my expectation such as the 'Emerging Fashion Designer Show' which showcased the latest talent in African fashion including my personal favourite designer; Ituen Basi. For me however; the 100% Indian Remi Human Hair by renowned hairdresser Parees, was the crowning fixture of the hair show. Unlike most hair extensions where after a few weeks it often becomes tangled, matted or even becomes quite discoloured; Parees' new extention hairline is rather impressive as it is one of the few hair extentions that uses 100% premium Indian remi human hair which gives for the best results if you want natural looking, tangle free hair, without the Beyonce price tag. Much to the pleasure of many, Parees has seemingly resolved a common problem for a lot of women which I'm sure will not go unnoticed, so remember where you heard her name first.
All in all, the Afro Hair And Beauty show 2010 was simply ok. Although there were a few elements that at times gave me a glimmer of hope that I would walk away from the event feeling fascinated by what I had discovered; the truth is even in its 29th year, there is still a lot to be desired.
On October 9th Ginuwine returns with his sixth studio album 'A Man's Thoughts'.
In a career that spans over ten years with platinum and multi-platinum albums as well as BET, American Music & Soul Train award,s Ginuwine's first album in nearly five years does not disappoint.
Since 2000 there have been many turbulent situations from the loss of both of his parents (see 'Two Reasons I Cry' from his 2001 'The Life' LP) and severe depression through all of this Ginuwine could always rely on his music as a form of release and expression.
Gone are the days of a slip 'n slide pony riding performer, A Man's Thoughts is a very grown and sexy album, but is still able to hold it's own in a market which now has the likes of Chris Brown & Trey Songz at it's forefront! From the intro Ginuwine sets the tone for his opus.
With this album Ginuwine says-
”I wanted that growth to be reflected in my music. Forget about singing about a club or some drink, I’m trying to take it back to the blueprint that Marvin Gaye and other soul legends designed.” After ten years at Sony Records, Ginuwine is now recording for Kedar Entertainment which is home to artists like Joe Thomas & Chico DeBarge. After recording over forty songs, what you have is an 11 track long player about love, relationships, settling down, promoting self-confidence, being true to your feelings and accepting your responsibilities.
Collaborations are set to a minimum with only Bun B, Brandy, Missy and a much overdue reunion with super prducer and old friend Timbaland. Production is handled by Brian Michael Cox (Day 26, Mariah Carey, Usher, Amerie & Musiq) with writing credit from RL Hugger (of Next) and Johnta Austin.
The lead single 'Last Chance', is a mid-tempo song described as an anthem for 'dudes tired of being players'. Set to a guitar string beat this track is a tale of forgetting your pride and all other outside influences to be with the one you truly love. Good choice for a jump-off single.
'Show Off' could be this years 'ode to all females' no matter their shape, size or colour. It's refreshing to hear someone sing about female’s qualities rather than focusing solely on her assets.
'One Time For Love' is definitely one for the fine slow jam connoisseur! G's velvet tones over a smooth piano driven instrumental showcases his vast vocal range perfectly. If there are any ladies out there who forgot about Ginuwine will definitely be drawn back in by track!
The standout track on A Man's Thoughts for me has to be 'Even When I’m Mad'. Not many artists can really make you feel exactly where they are coming from when they sing. Having known what Ginuwine had been through over the last few years you can tell he has a new appreciation for life and what and whom he has in it.
What I like about this album is that Ginuwine has stayed true to his craft and has not tried to fit in to pop-locking, swagger splashing, finger snapping market, but has come back with honest RnB that will please previous and new listeners. You definitely won't be disappointed with this album.
East London’s born and bred, Bow E3 bachelor, Dylan ‘Dizzee Rascal’ Mills, returns with his fourth solo album ‘Tongue N' Cheek’. ‘Boy in da corner’ no more, Dizzee, over his four album tirade, has transgressed from an aggressively grimey adolescent MC to chart topping electro- pop superstar. Washing his hands clean of Grime with this effort, as with the lacklustre 'Maths and English', Dizzee has reflectively produced an album embracing elements of heightened popular culture, possibly unheard of by his early Grime-head, Roll Deep affiliated fans.
Boasting three U.K number one singles: ‘Dance With Me’, ‘Bonkers’ and ‘Holiday’, Mr Rascal, as labelled by news man Jeremy Paxman, has evidently taken enormous steps away from the pastures of Grime, but this time with great effect and success. This is also made clearer in the array of dance music producers, including the likes of Calvin Harris, Armand Van Helden and Tiesco, consistently infusing techno and disco dance elements at the same time.
'Road Rage' is a distinctive head banger! The raw qualities of the harsh, gargantuan thuds and baseline sounds, beneath an aggressively rugged and simplified vocal, will be music to some early Rascal fans' ears, as he speaks on his thoughts and actions over his caution for road rage in December 2008.
'Dirtee Cash' sounds like a guaranteed follow up to Rascals latest number one hits, re-living an element of early 90’s club land dance reminiscences, further enforced by a sample of Stevie V’s 'Money Talks’.
The album title alone connotes Mr Rascal; ‘Tongue’ being his ways of word play and verbal communication, and ‘Cheek’ describing his mischievous, defiant un-apologetic character. Dizzee sounds extremely assured and confident in this effort as he swaggers about tracks detailing a new found chart topping lifestyle of scantily clad lady friends, ample leisure time and seemingly large sums of money to blow: “Dizzee Dizz I keep da money coming in/ £850 jeans covering ma skin/Coz ma legs are skinny but ma pockets ain’t thin/ Every time I buss a smile it’s a big money grin!”
Though the insanely nippy speech and raw articulation fashioned to his early fans has more or less evaporated, you could say that this is Dizzee Rascal's best commercial effort of an album and is too accomplished to not warrant a listen to. The outdoor party potential is immense, and any true followers of this year’s number one summer festival gatecrasher will be resolutely pleased with ‘Tongue N' Cheek’.
In 2003 I strolled in to Mr Mister CD (R.I.P) and was stopped in my tracks by a sound that I had never heard before! That sound was 'Hold On' by Eric Roberson and I've been a follower and fan eversince.
To say Roberson aka 'Erro' is one of the best artists out today is an understatement! Having wrote songs for Carl Thomas, Musiq Soulchild and Dwele to name a few, Eric has been producing GOOD music since the mid nineties.
For the quality of music that he has put out over the years Eric Roberson should be a more well known artist on a commercial level, but the fact that he isn't is what I think makes him such a respected musician and entertainer! After the huge success of his last album 'Left' Eric returns with 'Music Fan First', a 17 track opus that keeps up his reputation of producing quality heartfelt soul/RnB music. Much like his past efforts, this is definitely one for the G.O.O.D. music connoisseurs.
My stand out tracks are-
'Breakitdown' 'Dealing (ft. Lalah Hathaway)' 'Newness' 'A Tale Of Two (ft. Ben O'neill & Michelle Thompson)'
Although I said he does not have the commercial success I feel he deserves, (especially in the UK), make no mistake that Roberson does have a massive legion of loyal fans and that will only be enhanced by those who decide to pick up 'Music Fan First'.
There are very few artists who can write and perform music that touches your senses and makes you have to give your full attention for a songs entirety. With a market oversaturated with one hit wonders and gimmick dance songs, it's time real talent was rewarded.
Be sure to log on to www.EricRobersonMusic.com and get your copy of 'Music Fan First' and also his earlier albums. You can also keep up to date with his tours and UK dates and appearences. The album is now available from independent CD stores and iTunes.
1. If you didn't know, BP3 got leaked to the internet over last weekend and Jay-Z himself has told everyone to enjoy it.
2. If you did download it MAKE SURE YOU GO AND BUY IT! With that out of the way... Let me begin!
From the beginning of The Blueprint 3, Jay addresses a few things that have caught his attention since he's been away (What We Talkin' Bout) in an indirect direct way (oxymoron I know). Many new hip hop fans may feel like Jay had his time and is still talking about the same things he always was, but it's not what you say but how you say it and, no one does it better than him when when it comes down to it.
The bulk of the Production is handled by Timbaland, Kanye West, No I.D. and the Neptunes. What Jay-Z has done this time around is have quite a few guest appearances and on first look this can be a bit worrying, but fear not as a lot are merely chorus/hook guests. The line-up includes- Young Jeezy, Alicia Keys & Swizz Beats,Drake and Birminghams very own Mr Hudson to name a few.
'D.O.A. (Death Of Autotune) and 'Run This Town' were just a prelude to what the original Mr Carter had instore.
Many rappers fabricate what they have and haven't done but, that's not the case here. From restaurants, bars, clothing lines and a basketball team Jay-Z only speaks the truth which is what makes every song so authentic.
Back on 'Reasonable Doubt' a young Shawn Carter finessed a knack for witty word play and metaphors and as he releases album number 10 (11 if you include 'Roc La Familia') he raises the bar once again.
On 'Venus Vs. Mars' Jay-Z spits-
'Shawty plays piano/ Me I play with white keys/Shawty from the South, oh I think she likes me/ Shawty like 'Pac, me Big Poppa, screaming HIT 'EM UP/ I'm screaming WHO SHOT YA...' and that's just one of the memorable lines which, come back to back on every track.
In my reviews I usually suggest some stand-out songs, but for this album I have to put forward the the whole disc as I can't seperate the tracks although Jay and 'Ye collaborate nicely on 'Hate'
With all of his different business ventures a lot of critics wrote off Jay-Z, but he returned with 'American Gangster' and silenced them all and just like then he has returned at a time when music was beginning to stagnate. As long as he keeps releasing at this level of quality the hip hop and mainstream audience will pay attention!
There are very few artists who can have such longevity and span generations, one died on March 9th, 1997, one past away recently and the other will release 'The Blueprint 3' on September 11th so make sure you go copp that!
Jay-Z will be performing at The Roundhouse in Camden on September 17th and will also be joining Coldplay on tour later this month.
Whilst the uber sweet RnB artists churn out baby makers of tracks, serenading their female fan base with material that will guarantee the ladies on their side come single release day, the UK’s hottest export Taio Cruz returns with ‘Break Your Heart”.
With his middle finger up to the othodox "baby I miss you" or "lets get back together" type of single that we expect from newcomers, that were rejected from reality TV shows like X-Factor or Braitains Got Talent, (notice who I’m getting at here!), Taio Cruz ditches the safe approach and drops a bombshell that will manage to work for some but may alienate others.
A bold cry for an artist that doesn’t need to alter anything about his approach to music at all, but the daring lyrics like "If you fall for me, im not easy to please" displays the sheer confidence that sees Taio regarded as one of the hottest artists in the U.K who can stand shoulder to shoulder with many of his stateside counterparts.
If the message behind ‘Break Your Heart’ is too courageous for your liking, theres no doubt you’ll find yourself kicking yourself when the catchy hook comes in and you find yourself humming it. However, if you don't appreiciate the message or the catchy hook, then it's third time lucky as the production will have you spazzing out.
Undoubtedly the hottest producer at the moment, Fraser T Smith’s sound has seen his work propel artists like Tinchy Stryder to consequetive number one’s, and it seems like he has done it again as his use of strings becomes a sought after commodity in U.K. music.
‘Break Your Heart' is scheduled for a September 14th release.
After a two year hiatus from his last album 'The Big Bang', Hip Hop heavy weightBusta Rhymesis back with a new single 'World Go Round', infused with an infectious electro beat. The new single features the lovely Estelle a.k.a Stelly on the chorus and the strangely beautiful pairing makes for a certified banger.
Rhymes' natural transient style as well as his incomparable flow has marked him as the most charismatic characters in the Hip hop game to date and his sudden appetite for electro pop, elegantly garnished with Estelle's unique offering, will neither surprise nor disappoint his ardent fans . Infact the new single taken from his highly anticipatedeighth studio album rightfully entitled 'Back On My B S', will cement his position as one of rap's favourite and most consistently innovative artists.
Featuring various artists such Pharrell Williams, Akon and Mary J blige; Busta Rhymes latest project will see him crossing the realms of different music genres but like a true Hip Hop Samaritan he remains loyal to his roots collaborating with Lil Wayne and Common. That said, expect Rhymes to keep the hits coming.
Social Writers gives this single 4/5.
'World Go Round' is released on 31st August and his first release from Universal Motown Records, 'Back On My B S' is released on 9th December.
The college loving Caucasian rapper returns with his second single 'She Don't Wanna Man' from his highly acclaimed 'Asleep In The Bread Aisle' LP.
This rock-tinged song may not instantly appeal to the die hard hip hop fans, but it's not half bad! Roth's simple delivery is complimented nicely by Keri's 'I'm too hot for you' hook which oozes mainstream success.
After his first single, Asher went a bit quiet, but this could be the perfect way to re-introduce himself. Although this is quite an odd pairing, with the right visuals to accompany the song, I can see this track doing really well.
There was quite a buzz around Roth originally, but I think for some reason his album did not live up to the buzz of his Don Cannon & DJ Drama hosted 'The Greenhouse Effect'mixtape and with the obvious comparisons to a certain Marshall Mathers, he definitely had his work cut out for him. All in all I think Asher Roth has a bright future and will definitely be a hit on the festival and live shows scene.
I'm gonna give this one a 3/5 which could possibly be bumped up to a 4/5 once I see the video! The single is released September 14th through Schoolboy/Loud/SRC Records.
Asher Roth will also be live in concert on August 25th at The Scala, London.
Tickets are available at Ticketmaster- 08705 344 444 &
Last night I was fortunate enough to be invited to the ILUVLIVE presents: Tinie Tempah/Disturbing London Records showcase @ Bar Rumba.
Due to some, let's say some 'unfortunate' circumstances with the bars sercurity I missed Mister Who's performance, but was told by quite a few people that he's definitely one to look out for!
The first act I saw was the lovely Vanya Taylor (as well as her back-up singers) and she absolutely blew the crowd away as she sashayed through three tracks which displayed a varied vocal style from high to low pitch which, was very impressive. Speaking to her after her performance she said she hasn't performed for over 6 months, but it definitely did not show.
Second to the stage was elektro/pop/indie All About She. Although I had not heard of the boys before they had quite a following and had the crowd rocking and singing along as they ripped through two of their tracks and hyped the crowd for the main feature of the night.
Last, but definitely not least to the stage was the man who is Tinie in name but not in personality, Tinie Tempah. I think many people may have under-rated him and pigeon-holed him as an artist who only makes songs for the ladies (who were in full attendance) but that changed with the releases of 'Hood Economics: Room 147' and 'Sexy Beast Vol.1' mixtape respectively. I also remember a very memorable freestyle on Kiss FM DJ Logan's show which certainly showed me that Tinie is a true MC.
The first track performed was 'I'm Hot' featuring M.I.A who was replaced by the equally talented Disturbing London Records affiliate Sasha. The second track was off of Tinie's new album 'The DISCovery' which will be out January 2010. Tinie closed the show with smash hit 'Tears' and an acoustic refix version of the song that really put him on the map 'Wifey'.
Tinie's vibrant performance showed why he is fast becoming a festival favourite as he is not afraid to experiment with different sounds whilst staying true to his Hip Hop/Grime roots. It is easy to see his development as an artist and also the influence of having a good team behind him.
All of the artists on the night performed with a live band which only enhanced the show!
Everyone at Disturbing London Records have been working hard for many years to bring through credible UK talent and if last night was anything to go by they have no plans of easing up off of their grind anytime soon...
Although F.A.B.O'S album isn't out until 28/7/09 I've been lucky enough to get my hands on a copy early!
Brooklyn's very own heir to the throne returns with his first long player since 2007's 'From Nothin' To Somethin' , and what a comeback it is. I've always thought Fab has been a little underrated, but he's back to stake his claim as one of the more intelligent street tale story tellers.
Throughout the album there is a heavy R'n'B guest appearence with Keri Hilson, The Dream, Jeremih and Trey Songz all lending their dulcet tones, but do not get it twisted, as Fab stays very true to his street roots.
Lil Wayne guests on 'Salute' where Fab spits-
"I'm the highest title, numero uno, i'm not that lil' pregnant white girl, but... Juno".
When it comes to witty lyrics and metaphors there's not many that are better than Fabolous, although I think the emergence of a certain Canadian rapper/singer/actor may have made some people think about upping their game.
Usually I would list some stand out tracks, but after listening to the album it was quite hard for me to pick as I think you can play the CD without skipping beginning to end.
One for the ladies- 'Make Love' ft. Ne-Yo
For the lyric conscious- 'I Miss My Love'
For the streets- 'There He Go'
I'm glad to see Fab come back with so much vengence at time when music has become a bit stale and repitive. All of his fans will now see why he took over two years to come back!
In a time of instruction dance tracks and one hit wonders galore it's refreshing to know true hip hop is still alive and well!
Make sure you pick up the album which will be in stores on import. Also check out the remix to'Throw It In The Bag' ft. Drake which is RIDICULOUS!!!
The UK'sKyla is back with another funky house banger!
Many people will know Kyla from her Crazy Cousinz assisted 'Do You Mind' which tore down many a dancefloor over the last year or so. Using the method of 'if it isn't broke don't fix it', she has teamed up with the Cousinz once again for her highly anticipated 2nd single, 'Daydreaming'.
Originally written in september 2008 with Paleface, 'Daydreaming' is being released just in time for the summer parties and holiday's.
'Daydreaming' is a sultry track with a infectious bassline, but does differ from her national chart top 50 hit, 'Do You Mind'. It would have been very easy to release 'just another funky tune' but i personally think it has a more chilled out vibe to it which gets your head bobbing as soon as you hear it. The track is also supported by remixes from UK funky hero Lil Silva, garage legend Sticky, bassline pioneer Burgaboy and dubstep innovator LD.
I think the ladies especially will be diggin' this one. Make sure you support it when it's released on 7.9.09! Check out the vidz below for a snippet of the track and behind the scenes at the making of the 'Daydreaming' video.
The former Pretty Ricky frontman goes it alone with his first solo effort'The Introduction Of Marcus Cooper'.
After leaving Pretty Ricky due to creative and management issues Pleasure releases a stellar 12 track disc that will please his old fans and draw in some new one's. The material is definitely geared towards a more mature audience but does not alienate.
His first two singles'Did You Wrong'&'Boyfriend #2' got a lot of exposure in the U.S but did not get a lot of play over here.
Tracks like'Under'(my personal stand-out track),'Gotta Have You'&'Birthday suit'willkeep the slow jam lovers happy, whilst the Yung Joc assisted'I'm a beast'and the excellent'Your Love'which uses a sample from Cheryl Lynn's 1983 soul classic'Encore'will definitely 'get a party started' as they say.
Much like Slim (of 112) and Lloyd, Pleasure has a very distinctive vocal tone, but he does display a varied singing range throughout the LP without straying far from his RnB with a pop appeal style.
With his homeboy Sexy Spec' prancing around in red Y fronts these days in internet videos it looks like Pleasure may have made the right move. Although the album won't change the world it's definitely worth a listen and more than good start.
There's no official UK release date yet but the album is available on import and online.
We told you twice to make sure you go out and get Bashy's new album 'Catch Me If You Can' and if you haven't, I'm going to give you some reasons to!
Bashy definitely put a lot of creative thought into making this album and it shows from beginning to end.
Before Before is the kind of track that will have you saying "Oh yeah, I remember that" throughout. A nostalgic walk down memory lane reminiscing about TV shows, computer games and sweets! Told in his own entertaining and animated way this is definitely one for the lyric conscious.
Change, which we at SocialWriters feel is the stand out track on the album, is a very honest and heartfelt account of Bashy's life to date. On the track he touches on very sensitive issues around growing up, being a role model and forgiving people for their mistakes. Much like Kidulthood to Adulthood and Black Boys, (both bonus tracks). Change shows Bashy's continued musical growth.
Ransom ft. Wretch 32 and Scorcher is destined to be a classic UK hip hop/Grime record. I think it was a very smart move to have two artists, who I feel are the next to blow, on the same track. All three go back and forth through this inner city tale about wealth, jealousy and flossin'. (Check out our archives for the vid too!)
We Can Do Anything ft. Loick Essien & Jamelia is an extremely inspirational song which is definitely needed these days. Bash' enlisted Loick Essien who has featured on tracks with Chipmunk and Sway and the lovely Jamelia, who still sounds as good as ever, to let people know they can achieve anything they want if they're willing to work for it! A very fitting song for our current economic crisis.
After listening to the album we at Socialwriters think YourWish Is My Command should be the second single to follow up Who Wants To Be A Millionaire .
Overall Bashy has put out a 17 track CD which is reflective, thought provoking and very well produced . Through his experimentation with different sounds, this album will appeal to a wider audience and get him some much deserved mainstream exposure. The North West London resident has managed to find the right balance of mid tempo and upbeat tracks just in time for people to adopt his disc as their soundtrack to the summer.
Bashy I salute you Sir.
UK STAND UP!!
Available to buy at HMV, Amazon.co.uk, iTunes, Play.com and UK Record Shop
My lovely friend and fellow journalist Emmanuel invited me down to Indigo2, to watch his favourite singer of all time, Brandy, perform.
The last time I saw Brandy perform in concert was years ago at the Royal Albert Hall, when her album 'Never Say Never' was out! Sporting a new funky-cut, yaki weave, that was super shiny, Brandy was pulling out some dance moves. She had some MJ-robotic dance moves going on with a hint of some African moves.....I liked. She started the concert with 'Afrodisiac', which is a tune and followed through with other songs such as 'What About Us' and 'Full Moon'.
I didn't actually realise how many adoring fans she had or how many years she's been in the music industry. The concert was like a trip down memory lane, with Brandy singing a medley of her old-time jams, such as 'I Wanna Be Down' and 'Baby', and giving us some of her material from her latest album, 'Human'.
I can't fault the girl, she gave a great pitch perfect performance, but the thing I disliked is that the concert was over before you knew it! She was on stage for 45 minutes, which actually felt like 30 minutes. To make matters worse....where was the encore?? That's the first concert I've been to where there was no encore, and I've been to quite a few concerts!
