Oct 09 2008 4:00 pm,
Emiliana
Torrini
St. Giles
Church,
“You have
ticket?” asks a young French lady, optimistically milling around the entrance
to St. Giles Church in advance of Emiliana
Torrini’s sold out
In fact, politeness
is a staple quality of Torrini’s exceptionally dedicated fanbase. There are plenty
of reverential young couples here tonight, gazing wistfully at each other in hushed
anticipation throughout the moments preceding Torrini’s entrance.
When their
idol finally enters, a huge ovation engulfs the church before she even steps towards
the microphone. Torrini looks very
happy indeed…she knows, as we know, that this is going to be a special evening.
At this
point, it’s worth noting that Torrini’s
band is the best supporting cast heard in some time. The musicianship is
magnificent; her back catalogue masterfully translated to the live arena whilst
retaining its hushed, intimate quality.
Torrini’s kooky Scandinavian inter-song
banter translates well, with a noticeable rapport quickly developing between
performer and audience as the set progresses. I become convinced that most people
here would gladly watch this woman fart in to the microphone for two hours,
such is the devotion on show tonight.
Showcasing
tracks from new album Me And Armini alongside
long-standing fan favourites from 2005’s exceptional ‘Fisherman’s Woman’, Torrini moves expertly from her
customary acoustic lullabies to brisk jaunts such as the fantastic ‘Jungle
Drum’ with consummate ease.
These are
wonderful songs, beautifully performed in a stunning venue…it doesn’t get much
better than this.
James Hannam
