Lewis Watson @ The Arts Centre, Colchester

Gig: Lewis Watson

Support: Shannon Saunders + Frank Hamilton

Date: Friday 21st June

I had purchased tickets way back in March for this gig and I had been so impatient waiting for the day to arrive.

18 year old singer-songwriter Shannon Saunders was the first act on stage Friday night, and boy did she impress. Her down-to-earth approach with the audience won everyone over in a second. From the moment she started to sing, the whole crowd were captivated by her angelic voice. The simplicity of an acoustic guitar behind most of the songs creates a very minimalistic sound which complements her vocals perfectly. I predict big things from Miss Saunders. This isn't the only time you will hear this name.

As a proud member of #TEAMFRANK, I already knew about Frank Hamilton. I first heard of Frank when his song 'Flaws and Ceilings' (featuring Lauren Aquilina) was iTunes Single of the Week last year.

For the whole of 2012, Frank took on the task of writing, producing and releasing #onesongaweek. And he did it! I must admit, there isn't one song from that whole year that I don't like. They're all so unique.

Frank sung a selection of songs from his album 'The Best of #onesongaweek' and even sung a cover of Teenage Dirtbag. I already love this song but Frank’s cover is to die for - he even changed the lyrics to “I’ve got two tickets to Lewis Watson baby”, which Lewis filmed and you can see here.

Frank's voice is amazing as I have already told him before (fangirl moment) and I definitely want to see him again! And I'm in luck as Frank has announced a two month tour in September and October 2013. BRING ON MORE FRANK!! 

  

As soon as Lewis walked onto the stage, the whole venue erupted into screams and shouts from both girls AND boys (which is slightly weird but yeah). Lewis performed plenty of his songs, ranging from his very first EP 'It's Got Four Sad Songs On It BTW' which he called 'my baby', to his latest EP 'Four More Songs' which is released in July; including new song ‘Calling’ which has been played recently on Radio 1. 

The atmosphere was incredible as everyone was chilled (ironically, the venue was boiling hot and everyone was sweating, ew) and happily singing along. Lewis’ live vocals are just as brilliant as his recorded EPs and I’m glad I have been able to experience him live. For one song, Lewis got into the crowd and made everyone circle around him; this was brilliant as the people at the back were able to see Lewis up close. The venue is quite small compared to other venues I have been to, but this gives it a very intimate and personal performance. But a much deserved round of applause goes to Lewis for his outstanding performance!