Paloma Faith shines in Delamare Forest

Paloma Faith in the Forests 2013

Friday 14th June to Friday 5th July 2013
Thetford, Sherwood Pines, Bedgebury Pinetum, Westonbirt, Cannock Chase, Dalby Forest, Delamare, England
£32

There has been much talk in recent years about the perceived manipulation of the British public, in to finding new members of the British Royal family, or 'new Royals', more relatable. It has been argued that the relative affordability of the collective Middleton wardrobe, is nothing more than a carefully engineered PR exercise. I however, have erected my two-man tent and started frying my meat-free sausages in the firmly non-cynical camp. I enjoy a bit of pomp and circumstance and if that is accompanied by a flattering blush shift dress with matching blazer – all the better. In a fashion phenomenon dubbed, "The Duchess Effect"; Kate is single-handedly boosting the financial fortunes of several high street stores. In a similar vein and equally magisterial measure; Paloma Faith is promoting British singing and songwriting to audiences far beyond UK shores. With her latest album, 'Fall to Grace' currently certified 2x Platinum; Faith took to the stage at Delamere Forest this week, ready to receive a Cheshire welcome befitting her queenly stature.

The outdoor stage was adorned with the resplendent colours of blue, red and gold, as well as being bathed in the glorious sunshine that last weekend bestowed upon us. The stage set had a grand and orchestral feel to it, with band members dressed in monochrome suits and shirts. Faith's band was made up of eight members: backing singers, keys, piano, drums and bass guitar. Five of the eight members were female; a fact which I note due to the subtle aura of female empowerment on stage. Faith was definitely the sovereign, surrounded by her willing and supportive subjects. Faith was greeted with rapturous applause and was clearly amongst passionate fans. Kicking off her set with popular tracks '30 Minute Love Affair' and her recent cover of INXS' 'Never Tear Us Apart', Faith quickly demonstrated the vocal prowess that she is so critically acclaimed for. Faith has a very engaging presence on stage, which comes across as performance art as opposed to straight singing. She conveys her emotions and emphasizes the feeling behind her lyrics almost effortlessly, with a simple turn of the hand or heartfelt glance in to the distance. Faith is also completely hilarious; a cute mixture of quirky and self-deprecating, which are qualities that her fans obviously love about her.

Other tracks from her latest album included: 'Blood, Sweat & Tears'. 'Beauty of the End' and 'Let Me Down Easy', all of which prompted a sing-along by the audience. Faith had commented earlier this year that she wanted to tour her latest album when fans would know all the words to each track. The timing of this show had certainly been perfect in this regard. Faith said that she had been busy writing her third album with American musician and producer, Raphael Saadiq – definitely a sign of more good things to come. Faith also disclosed that she had never intended to become a singer; having tried her hand at acting and other endeavours in her early career. She claimed that Etta James had taught her how to sing, albeit indirectly, before performing a tribute to James with a stunning and rousing cover of 'I'd Rather Go Blind'. Faith sings as if it comes so naturally, hitting notes that other artists could only dream of and seemingly not even breaking a sweat. She clearly feels the music and sings accordingly and I have only seen a handful of other artists do this live. You truly feel that you have witnessed a performance that won't be repeated the next night.

A cover of 'I Can't Stand the Rain' came next and was particularly well received. Faith's band played an active part in the show and we were treated to solo performances by her three female backing singers or ladies-in-waiting if you will, who were equally impressive. Faith's songwriting talents are striking; it would be easy yet remiss to focus purely on the strength and skill of her vocal range. A fine example of this talent would be found in my favourite track, 'Just Be'. I find the lyric, “Let's get old together, let's be unhappy forever, cause there's no one else in this world, that I'd rather be unhappy with” so simple yet heartbreakingly honest. It makes sense, in the sense that doesn't and I never tire of hearing it. It would be fair to say that I am somewhat in awe of Faith's writing abilities. Finishing off her stately and sublime set with 'Black and Blue' and fan favourite track 'Picking Up The Pieces', Faith took her bow to emphatic applause. I've been to a fair few shows over the past seventeen years and I'd have to say that Faith was in the top three female live vocalists. Given that the other two were Celine Dion and Christina Aguilera; I think that she would be content with that.

Faith is gracious and noble and gives us cause to sing with heart and voice. God Save Her.

review by: Shelley Hanvey

photos by: Shelley Hanvey