Ibibio Sound Machine
Ibibio Sound Machine at the Wedgewood Rooms
With the announcement of Ibibio Sound Machine at the Wedgewood Rooms came much hype in the build-up to the gig. After all, among the array of covers bands and club nights, it’s not every day a Nigerian led funk band headline Portsmouth on a Saturday night.
As anticipated it was to be a lively affair and with the Wedgewood Rooms sold out, it left little room to move your feet. However, the energy coming from the stage made it near impossible not to start dancing.
Backed by her 7 piece band, lead singer Eno Williams was a joy to watch and very much the focal point of the night. Except those moments handed over to the horn section or at the point each member of the band was rightfully introduced. Particular shout out to percussionist Anselmo Netto, whose hands must be made of leather, while keeping up an impressive rhythm throughout.
Eno Williams – Ibibio Sound Machine
She Work Very Hard
Even when reciting lyrics in her native tongue, Williams managed to get the Wedge singing along, such is the power of Ibibio Sound Machine. The bands latest album “Doko Mien” (translated as “Tell Me”) is full of great numbers, which were always going to come across well live.
Tracks such as “Wanna Come Down” and “She Work Very Hard” are particular stand out tunes. While the odd slower tune still managed to captivate the audience. Although it’s the funky upbeat numbers that made Ibibio Sound Machine at the Wedgewood Rooms somewhat special.
As when it comes to Saturday nights in Portsmouth, Ibibio Sound Machine proved dancing doesn’t have to be all about cheesy DJ’s or banging club music. So if the Wedge fancy booking more African influenced funk and soul acts, that’s absolutely fine by Mr Teeth Reviews.
Ibibio Sound Machine “Doko Mien” out now.
Review: Ibibio Sound Machine, Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth
