Music / Reviews
Review: Freddie Lewis, Crofters Rights – ‘Full of joy’
It was a cold and drizzly evening but Crofters Rights was warm, inviting and buzzing with excitement as an all South West lineup were on the bill for this gig.
With support from Nat Oaks and MLY, unfortunately El Knight had to pull out due to sickness, the gig kicked off on the right foot.
Off the back of his performance at Iceland Airwaves and performing with a full band, Freddie Lewis took to the stage in celebration of the release of his second EP, More Than That.
is needed now More than ever
With pink bubblegum lights, a glittery disco ball hanging from the ceiling and Freddie rocking a black silk shirt, the gig felt like a 70’s disco with all your best friends.
Performing an array of hits, from upbeat joyous tracks about exes to slower, personal tracks confronting identity and transness, Freddie is consistent in his versatility and skillfulness.
Infusing echos of jazz and electronic, reminiscent of Easy Life, alongside hints of nostalgic noughties pop reminiscent of The Kooks, the gig is immensely enjoyable. The songs translate from recorded to live flawlessly.
Freddie is charismatic on stage, upbeat and effusive despite the tricky subject matter at times. Joining us on the floor to have a dance, he knows how to please the crowd.
Another suprising treat was his cover of Sugababes’ About You Now; it’s a talent to have a five piece band perform this track with you but somehow make it sound stripped back. Freddie’s vocals like warm enveloping hug alongside the guitar-led backing melody.
Alongside him, his band are completely captivating. Allowing them to have full reign during his track Ignorance, the other members on stage connect so well together you could watch them for hours.
Full of joy, the event felt more like a well performed gig in someone’s living room; personable, friendly, warm and safe.
It was a treat to see a window into the life and music of Freddie Lewis: marshmallow pop with a dose of introspection.
Main photo: courtesy of Freddie Lewis
Read next:
- Reviews: Julie Byrne, The Jam Jar – ‘A luscious collection of songs’
- Review: Lottery Winners, SWX – ‘Bulging with so much passion’
- Review: Holy Moly & The Crackers, The Fleece – ‘Smoky and powerful’
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