Rejoice! Samantha Fish is currently back in the UK touring, and on Sunday 10th October she arrived at Koko, Camden for the London stop of her Bulletproof tour. As part of her ongoing European tour the packed-out venue was buzzing with anticipation, and from the moment she stepped on stage the audience ignited for what would prove an unforgettable evening, and the energy in this stunning venue was at boiling point.
Fish came out with her full band, launching straight into "Kick Out the Jams", setting the tone for a night full of electrifying blues-rock. Her sheer presence alone had the audience swept up and from that point on, there was no turning back. One of the standout moments of the night was her performance of "Wild Heart," the title track from her acclaimed album. Her guitar work was nothing short of mesmerising – fluid, raw, and powerful. It was a masterclass in technique and emotion, blending flawlessly with her gritty, soulful vocals.
"Dream Girl" was another highlight, a fan favourite that saw Fish switch between vulnerable lyrics and searing guitar licks. Her ability to command both the subtlety of her voice and the ferocity of her guitar playing in one song was truly impressive.
But if there was one song that perfectly encapsulated the evening, it was "Bulletproof." The haunting vocals, combined with the thunderous drive of her guitar, had the room entranced. It was one of those performances where time seemed to stand still – Fish pouring every ounce of emotion into each note.
The setlist was a well-balanced mix of old favourites and newer material, with tracks like "Better Be Lonely," "Chills and Fever," and "Miles to Go" keeping the energy
The encore commenced with Samantha’s most recent release, a cover of Screamin' Jay Hawkins' classic "I Put a Spell on You,". Her rendition was nothing short of spellbinding (pun intended). Her voice carried a hypnotic quality, blending darkness and seduction, as her band provided a moody backdrop to one of the blues' most iconic tunes. It was a fresh yet faithful interpretation that did justice to the blues of old.
The encore saw Fish invite support artist Zac Schulze back on stage for a raucous rendition of "Goin’ Down South." The chemistry between them was fantastic, and the crowd erupted in cheers as the local Kent boy (with half of Medway in attendance) proved himself as worth as the limelight as Samantha herself. It was a fitting end to an evening filled with musicianship of the highest caliber.
After fifteen years in the industry, the one thing that makes Samantha a top draw is not her vocals or guitar (which are already unquestionable), but the fact that she remains genuine and humble with her audience. The bond this creates with not just the audience, but her fans on a global scale is what brings people from all over the world to any of her shows. I spoke to fans from as far as Seattle and Spain in the queue, and it remains an enduring testament to a true artist.
With the night drawing to a close, it was clear that Samantha Fish had given her all to a grateful crowd. Koko, with its storied history and intimate feel, was the perfect setting for such an electric performance. Fish is not just a formidable blues guitarist; she’s a true show woman, and if this concert is anything to go by, her star is only set to rise higher.
Remaining dates:
Cardiff, Tramshed - Tuesday 8 October 2024
Bath, Komedia - Wednesday 9 October 2024
Leeds, Project House - Thursday 10 October 2024
Nottingham, Rock City - Friday 11 October 2024
Newcastle, Boiler Shop - Saturday 12 October 2024
Edinburgh, Queen's Hall - Sunday 13 October 2024
Setlist:
Kick Out the Jams
Wild Heart
Better Be Lonely
Kill or Be Kind
Watch It Die
Chills and Fever
Bulletproof
Miles to Go
Never Gonna Cry
Somebody's Always Trying
Poor Black Mattie
Dream Girl
Wish I Was in Heaven Sitting Down
Black Wind Howlin'
Encore:
I Put a Spell on You
Goin' Down South (With Zac Schultze)
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