Maria Gadú

A lot of people assume that solo artists have it easier than bands. That by performing solo, they’re bypassing the majority of difficulties that bands face in performance, in recording and in writing. The truth is that the only solo artists that applies to are the ones not trying hard enough. If anything, being a solo artist is even harder, as it means that the pressure is entirely on the artist and if they mess up, only they can take the blame. It means that every aspect of one artist has to be the best it can be, however when that’s true, it’s awe inspiring. This is the least that can be said about Brazilian singer/songwriter Maria Gadú, everything from her voice, to her songwriting, to her live performances is the best it can be, the latter arguably being the best showcase for everything else about her music. Her voice alone is worth the price of admission. Warm, husky and effortlessly expressive, it tells a story even when some limey like me is listening and doesn’t understand what she’s actually singing about. The songs are exquisite as well, and whatever surroundings they are performed in, their subtle, jazz inflected “Música popular brasileira” makes it feel intimate. It may be more subtle than what most look for in a concert, but for those who don’t need or want to be thrown about in a mosh pit to have a good night, it’s nigh on unmissable.

Slightly unusual. Found it a bit difficult to enjoy the band. Music was not what I expected. Not my cup of tea but everyone else seemed to enjoy it. Barbican us s fantastic venue.