A NIGHT FOR THE FANS: NICK HEYWARD BLENDS STORYTELLING AND NOSTALGIA AT UNION CHAPEL SHOW

LIVE REVIEW | NICK HEYWARD w/ Acantha Lang | UNION CHAPEL, LONDON | 6th October 2025 by Kevin O’Sullivan

Earlier this week, the historic Union Chapel in Islington provided a stunning backdrop for an evening of music led by Nick Heyward, with support from the soulful Acantha Lang. The venue’s acoustics and intimate atmosphere were the perfect match for a night that blended heartfelt storytelling, musical nostalgia, and strong performances from start to finish.

Acantha Lang – Soul, Jazz, and Hear

Opening the evening was Acantha Lang, whose set showcased rich, soulful vocals and beautiful jazz harmonies. Performing new material, she immediately connected with the audience, her voice warm and full of character.

A highlight of her set was a touching song dedicated to her mother, Lois Lang – “not Lois Lane of Superman!” she joked, drawing laughter from the crowd. The tribute was heartfelt and genuine, capturing the emotional depth of her music.

Lang also announced she’ll be performing at Ronnie Scott’s in March with her full band, which earned an enthusiastic response. Based on her performance here, that show will be one not to miss.

Nick Heyward – A Sparkling Return

Nick Heyward and his eight-piece band (nine performers in total) took the stage with a relaxed confidence. The set opened slowly, with tracks like ‘Atlantic Monday‘ and ‘On a Sunday‘, gently warming up the crowd. It was only when he switched from the house microphone to his own sparkly silver mic that things noticeably shifted. From that point on, he seemed more at ease, and the energy of the show lifted.

The setlist was a generous mix of newer songs and classic favourites. Standouts included ‘He Doesn’t Love You‘, ‘Kite‘, ‘Chelsea Sky‘, and ‘Remainers‘, which demonstrated Nick Heyward‘s ongoing ability to craft thoughtful, melodic pop. ‘Blue Hat‘ and ‘Carry On Loving’ offered more introspective moments, balanced by the upbeat ‘Love All Day’ and ‘Take That Situation’.

Fans were treated to stories from his Haircut 100 days, adding humour and context to the music. Some in the audience had even seen him perform in the US earlier this year with Haircut 100, and the band’s influence was felt in his renditions of ‘Love Plus One’, ‘Favourite Shirts‘, and ‘Fantastic Day’.

The encore – featuring ‘Who‘ and ‘Fantastic Day‘ – rounded off the night perfectly. By then, the whole venue was on its feet, clapping and singing along.

A Night for the Fans

With strong musicianship, a tight band, and a well-paced set, this was a performance that rewarded both long-time followers and newer listeners. The Union Chapel’s beauty and acoustics elevated the entire evening, allowing every note and lyric to land with impact.

For fans who travelled from across the UK—and even from the US—it was a memorable night, filled with great songs, humour, and moments of real connection.

Nick Heyward proved once again that he’s not just a voice from the ’80s. He’s an artist still evolving, still performing with heart, and still very much worth seeing live.