Oct 25, 2016
2016 has been a year of forward propulsion for Bucks native Jack Garratt. After releasing his hotly anticipated February debut Phase and winning both the BBC Sound Of 2016 Poll and Brits Critics’ Choice Award, the 25-year-old electronic/ neo-soul artist has been slated for stardom.
Like any young artist exploding on the scene, this hasn't been without growing pains. His music has met varying reviews, receiving accolades by some and determined "bland" by others. This hasn't stopped the multi-instrumental one-man-show from flexing his prowess throughout his US tour.
Opening with an amalgam of "Coalesce" and "Synesthesia Part III", Garratt poised himself at the center of a semi-circular mothership of synths, drum pads, samplers and a full drum kit. Retaining command of each instrument and performing simultaneously, he gently led the crowd into the set with the upbeat "Breathe Life" before breaking for some banter.
Garratt has maintained a humble demeanor despite his big year in the spotlight. Grinning widely, he engaged the audience in laughter and disarmed relentless drunken hecklers with grace and good-humor. He seemed genuinely surprised to hear the crowd echo his lyrics, leading the devout chorus through the hymnal high notes of "The Love Your Given" and introverted softness of "Weathered."
Diving into his self-proclaimed favorite: "Far Cry," he bathed the room in bubbling sub-frequencies, buzzing chords and flitting falsettos. His music strikes a balance between driving dance beats and emotional lyricism, punctuated by showmanship. Twirling his drumstick and writhing through sampled rhythms, he easily won the attention of each attendee.
The Philly crowd rejoiced at an impromptu rendition of "The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air" theme song, which Garratt teased while joking "I'm not sure this is the appropriate place..."
Other highlights included a mashup of Craig David's "Seven Days" with Justin Timberlake's "Senorita," and a dextrous, bluesy guitar solo leading into the explosive finale "Worry."
Regardless of your stance on Garratt's recorded music, if you have the opportunity, see him live before making a final judgement. Chances are, you'll be impressed by his performance finesse and maybe even have some fun in the process.
