Warming up for the vinspired Lake Of Stars to promote Malawi's music and tourism as well as raising money for charity Microloan, this was without doubt the most dazzling charity event we've ever seen. Warming up for the warm up, Tinashé from Zimbabwe (via Hackney) gave a melodic first performance along with friend Pearl from Pearl and the Puppets and featuring an unusual sanza as Tinashé's native African instrument of choice.
Tinashé certainly gained an impressed new crop of fans, but the best was still to come.
Stepping onto the stage festooned with a glorious gold feathered head piece, Shingai certainly brought the Malawian carnival atmosphere to the Union Chapel.
Clearing the stage like a bird of paradise cleaning it's space to spread it's mating-call plumage, Shingai took to the stage with uncompromised extravagance and an uninhibited command of the crowd. Performing bare-footed, Shingai opened immediately with crowd pleaser Don't Upset The Rhythm and unbeknown to the audience embarking on what was to be a sensational, breath-taking and energetic two hour live performance!
Inviting prodigal brother Kwayedza to join her for a duet and later Dave from The Invisibles as guest guitarist, Shingai gave an incredible pitch perfect performance from beginning to end, with vocal range to easily rival Mariah Carey's record breaking, searing high pitches to contrasting deep gravelly tones.
She may have joked about being in the "house of the lord," but Shingai and her band were in their element, with their unique melodies resonating throughout the church's acoustics, the crowds astonishment was palpable.
With a final flurry, as many of the audience who could fit, including Shingai's mother joined the band on the stage. With all standing, it was impossible to see where the stage started and finished, testament to night's carnival atmosphere and overall an unbelievable night to remember... and that was just the warm up!
For more information go to: www.lakeofstars.org
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