Paloma Faith - HMV Forum, London - December 1st 2010 (Live Review)
Friday, 03 December 2010
Written by Katie Territt
Hackney-born Paloma Faith has been slowly gaining recognition since the release of her debut album, ‘Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful’ in September 2009. With guest slots on Never Mind The Buzzcocks and 5 singles released from her debut, she’s easily become a bit of a household name.
On a chilly and snowy 1st of December evening, I made my way to the HMV Forum in Kentish Town to see Paloma headline her Russian Standard Vodka Originals Show. A series of six gigs taking place in Edinburgh and London, the Originals Shows are showcasing some of the best in today’s talent, and boy was this true on the night.
London quintet Dry The River were the support for the night and definitely made a big impression on the already large crowd. With the likes of Mumford & Sons paving the way for indie folk-rock bands, Dry The River’s multi-instrumental music and beautiful harmonies were as current as you can get. With a set full of infectious semi-acoustic tunes, lead singer Pete Liddle held the crowd in the palm of his hand whilst forcing his way into their hearts. A definite tip for 2011, simply stunning.
After what seemed like a huge wait, dramatic as ever, Paloma took to the stage in typical kooky costume sporting a top hat and black lace bodice with a full skirt launching into ‘Play On’ from her debut release. The biggest cheers of the night were definitely for the single releases, debut ‘Stone Cold Sober’, the title track from ‘Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful’, ‘Upside Down’ and current single ‘Smoke And Mirrors’.
Not one to shy away from making something her own, Paloma covered three songs during the course of her set. Putting her own spin on them, she made them huge highlights of the night. First up was the Etta James classic ‘At Last’ which Paloma introduced as a song she used to sing back in the days before she was signed. With just a piano accompaniment, it showcased her husky soulful voice beautifully and was a definite goosebump moment. The non-radio edit of Cee-Lo Green’s ‘F*ck You’ was also covered, with Paloma’s fantastic backing singers having their chance to shine, and a gorgeous version of Nick Cave’s ‘Into My Arms’ finished off the covers.
Paloma’s biggest single to date, ‘New York’, was the set closer, and had the crowd singing every word of the chorus. A real natural talent, Faith has a stunning voice, is a great character, and has an absolutely superb band backing her. Her vocals are flawless and her music manages to retain a true retro feel whilst still sounding so “now”. She’s definitely an artist I’d love to see live again, with her dramatic flair perfectly sitting side by side with the drama in her songs. A HUGE thumbs up for a fantastic (free) show!
Paloma Faith’s Originals Show was filmed for Channel 4, so keep an eye out for it on a TV near you soon!
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After what seemed like a huge wait, dramatic as ever, Paloma took to the stage in typical kooky costume sporting a top hat and black lace bodice with a full skirt launching into ‘Play On’ from her debut release. The biggest cheers of the night were definitely for the single releases, debut ‘Stone Cold Sober’, the title track from ‘Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful’, ‘Upside Down’ and current single ‘Smoke And Mirrors’. 
