18 February 2019 (gig)
21 February 2019
There couldn’t have been a more worthwhile reason for my long overdue first visit to the Omeara which opened up back in 2016.
The War Child BRITs week hosts some of the biggest artists in intimate venues across the capital to raise money and awareness for children whose lives have been torn apart by war. Last year's event raised an estimated £650,000 and as a reminder of why we are here a short video is shown of Frederique whose mother and brother were killed in an attack whilst he was at school and highlights the crucial work undertaken by War Child to provide him with a safe environment. Let's hope that more can be raised in 2019!
The Omeara itself is quite unique. Situated under two Victorian railway arches just a stone’s throw from London Bridge tube station, the venue’s main room looks something akin to a dilapidated 1930’s concert hall. Indigo and lavender moving projections provide the atmospheric additional lighting to the sole hanging chandelier of the otherwise dark room.
Bang on 9.30 Jake takes to the stage sporting his now almost customary black shirt and he opens up with 'How Soon Is The Dawn' and immediately follows up with 'Saffron'. In particularly talkative mood, Jake then takes another moment to remind everyone of the great cause he's performing for before announcing he's going to play an 'old one' and quips, 'don't get your hopes up, it's not from the first album!' as he launches into 'Slide'.
Having been around for quite some time now, it seems hard to believe that he's only still 24. He's remained very much with his feet on the ground and despite not being an extrovert he's clearly never more comfortable than when on stage with his guitar and creating a bond with the crowd.
We're then treated to a sneak preview of the next album which Jake promises 'will be more upbeat', and ends the gig on a real high with a selection of his upbeat classics such as 'Taste It', 'Two Fingers' and 'Lightening Bolt'.
Jake Bugg's music is simple yet intriguing and he has tunes which can move you and arouse you. Tonight has left me looking forward to the next album. A great gig for a great cause.
