Sunday, 30 March 2014

Live Review: Dan Croll @ Bodega [24/03/14]


At the tender age of 22, Dan Croll has already been tipped for great things – even receiving a nod of approval by Paul McCartney whilst mastering his trade at Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts. Last night, at a rammed Bodega, the Scouse musician proved all his critics right.

Following the release of debut album Sweet Disarray, this is Croll’s first ever headline gig in Nottingham. The bespectacled singer, however, takes it all in his stride.

Croll’s exotic, feel-good vibe takes note from Vampire Weekend’s twitching guitar melodies, while maintaining an afrobeat splendour reminiscent of Paul Simon’s Graceland. Compliment Your Soul’s triumphant and orchestral chorus rings sweetly throughout the intimate venue, capable of lifting the limpest of spirits.

Although being master craftsman, a lot of credit must be given to Croll’s backing band. The four-piece provide textured melodies and spot-on harmonies to perfectly accompany the lead-singer’s swooning vocals.

Home, an inoffensive ode to family life, is the night’s best received cut and induces a sing-along from the otherwise reserved audience. The song’s twee lyrics, politely asking you to remove your shoes at his door, cuts close to forgettable, landfill indie-pop, but is saved by a warm, stirring finale.

The night’s most impressive moment comes in the form of the immense From Nowhere. Here, Croll fires on all cylinders – delivering his most accomplished songwriting and a dynamic, electronic edge.

He may not be the finished article just yet, but if Dan Croll continues riding this current wave of success, greatness will surely be within reach.

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