Review: Newton Faulkner, O2 Academy 

The Newton Faulkner that took the stage at the O2 Academy in Bristol on Sunday evening was a far-cry from the Newton Faulkner of old. Shaggy red dreadlocks have made way for a slick top-knot; baggy trousers for skinny jeans; Baja hoodies for fitted t-shirts. But despite the dramatic changes to his appearance, the raw vibrato and fingerpicking genius that shot him into stardom some 10 years ago remain brilliantly unaltered.

Support was provided by Sam Brookes, who’s quivering tenor cast a serene trance over the bustling Sunday night crowd. Lyrics of heartfelt emotion flutter effortlessly between the higher and lower registers – owing no doubt to his musical past as a chorister. Sam’s hymnal tones could be likened to those of Fleet Foxes or Hozier – none more so than on the track Numb from his 2014 album Kairos, and with a busy tour planned I hope we can expect big things for him in 2018. The gig was a homecoming for the Bristol native, which showed through his absolute ease on stage, and anyone keen to catch a glimpse of him live should do so when he plays Thekla next May 5th.

Newton Faulkner started his set fittingly with a guitar solo intro that blends seamlessly into the first song of his 2007 debut album Hand Built by Robots, a record that would go double-platinum and remains to this day a staple of every beachside campfire or backpacker’s road trip. Despite the years, the complex formula of guitar and vocal were totally indistinguishable from the studio version. With percussion, guitar, synths and sound effects provided by Newton himself – you could be forgiven for forgetting it was a solo performance.

Another feather to Newton’s already well-feathered cap is his charming familiarity on stage. The set flowed organically from song to anecdote and back again. One in particular that stuck in my mind was the story behind the song Carry You from his new album Hit The Ground Running – both touching and humorous in equal measure. The story goes – Newton’s young son ‘reminded him not to forget him’ before he left for his tour. Whilst on tour, he bought his son a statue of a baby elephant encased within a larger elephant to represent how he carries his son with him wherever he goes. He presented the gift to his son, whilst playing the associated song, and upon asking little Beau Faulkner his thoughts he replied ‘Daddy that’s creepy.’

The set was finished with a medley of some of his best loved songs from the past decade. Despite what I thought was an ingenious way of showcasing his material, the calling of various requests from the crowd continued long after the final song had ended – which served as a fitting testament to the seasoned performer. I for one would happily attend a show of just his singing, just his guitar playing, or even just his commentary – but the three in combination result in a truly well-rounded performance.