Tom Misch: O2 Academy, Leeds, Geography Tour — Review
Tom Misch’s earliest introduction to the world of music came at the age of 15 when his sister’s boyfriend introduced him to producer J Dilla. Ever since then, Misch has been crafting his own sound, making beats inspired by a myriad of genres from funk and jazz to hip-hop and disco. Now 22, performing in Leeds for the first time, for a devoted crowd of fans, Tom’s own love of music shines through. I was there to report back for University Radio York.
For the duration of the gig, Tom was surrounded by his family on stage. His sister Polly joined him for the start of ‘Movie’; a slow-burning, love song reminiscent of many jazz inspired D’Angelo tracks. The whole experience of Tom’s dreamy vocals was completed by marvellous stage design where the shadow of an old movie reel was projected onto the stage as he sang. Only the intensity of the violin, which was much more prominent than in the studio version, detracted from the performance. However, the similarly violin-heavy ‘Man Like You’ felt incredibly poignant and heartfelt - the crowd clearly enthralled by the potent performance, full with the emotion of the song.
Another surprising but beautiful cover of ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ won cheers of delight from the audience; funky guitar riffs adding a welcome Misch-spin on a well-known classic. On several other occasions, Tom’s original love of creating chilled out boom-bap beats was showcased by his instrumentals. ‘The Journey’ which blends nu jazz with smooth rhythms instantly grabbed attention, whilst the currently unreleased Tick Tock highlighted Tom’s love for his work and the rapport he has with his band. Another unreleased track ‘Disco Yes’ featuring support act Poppy Ajudha was an unexpected favourite, with the disco grooves teasing fans for the new album.
Misch didn’t let us forget his main inspiration, ending the show with a mash-up of J Dilla classics that seemed mainly for his own enjoyment; but which also seemed to be imbibed by the audience as he left the stage with shouts for more. His encore of ‘Watch Me Dance’ couldn’t have been more suited to an evening of silky smooth guitar and jazz-soaked beats, inspiring dance moves in even the most uncoordinated of fans.
Coming away from the gig, you couldn’t help but feel uplifted by Tom’s effortless style and passion for his music. This might have been his first time performing in Leeds, but it certainly won’t be his last.
Article: Mariella Bevan
URY Music Editor: Alex West
Tom’s debut album ‘Geography’ will be released on April 6th, 2018. If you want to catch him on tour in the UK, these are his remaining dates:
8th March — Roundhouse, London
9th March — Roundhouse, London
11th March — O2 Institute, London
