LIVE REVIEW - LOYLE CARNER -Newcastle

Rising British hip-hop star Loyle Carner released his highly anticipated third album 'hugo' back in October 2022 (read our review here). With the album becoming an instant hit with his fans, Loyle hit the road along with special guest Wesley Joseph to play it to a live audience. Stopping by at Newcastle City Hall on his sold-out UK tour, it was clear from the queue that wrapped around City Hall several times that Loyle has built up a dedicated fan base. 

Kicking off the show in style, Birmingham born songwriter, producer and filmmaker, Wesley Joseph who went down a storm with the Newcastle crowd. Managing to cram a huge nine tracks into his time on stage, including Bloom, Monsoon, and Thrilla, Wesley definitely left the crowd wanting more. A talented and established artist in his own right, Wesley Joseph was the perfect choice as the opening act on the tour.
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Loyle's set was the right mix of old and new. With a huge chunk of the songs from his previous album, 'Not Waving, but drowning '.  Including the likes of 'Angel', 'Ice Water' and 'Loose Ends', much to the delight of the packed out auditorium. While there was a lot of love for Loyle's older tracks, there was little doubt that the fans were going wild for the 'hugo' tracks. Only two from his debut album, with 'Ain't Nothing Changed' and 'Damselfly' representing 'Yesterday's Gone'.

Wesley Joseph Photos: David Weddle @DWConcertphotos

Loyle started the show with two new tracks in quick succession, 'Hate' and 'Plastic'. You know that a new record is a success when the audience know all the words, and the sold out City Hall definitely knew each and every one. 
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As the band played behind him, Loyle's smile lit up the room with contagious enthusiasm and energy. From the first song to the last, Loyle Carner took the crowd on an emotionally charged journey, a journey that the Newcastle crowd was more than happy to go on. 

After an epic nineteen tracks, Loyle had one more treat in store for Newcastle. Topping off the night with 'Ottolenghi'. Loyle certainly wowed Newcastle and hopefully it won't be long before he returns to the region. You can check out 'hugo' for yourself at loylecarner.lnk.to/hugo

Photos: David Weddle @DWConcertphotos