MATT CHAMPION ENTERS A NEW CHAPTER WITH HIS FIRST LONDON SOLO SHOW

LIVE REVIEW | MATT CHAMPION | OSLO, HACKNEY 15th February 2025 by MILES HUMPHRIES

Matt Champion’s show at Oslo, Hackney wasn’t just a gig; it was a statement. His first solo performance in London since Brockhampton’s emotional farewell show at Brixton Academy felt like a new chapter—one that proved Champion’s artistry extends far beyond the group that made him a star.

The intimate, 350-capacity venue was packed with fans eager to witness this new era. Compared to the grand scale of Brixton, Oslo felt raw and personal—a perfect space for Champion to showcase his solo evolution. The night had a sense of excitement and curiosity, with everyone wondering how Champion would command the stage alone.

From the opening track, he had the crowd hooked. The setlist included fan favourites like Slow Motion, Aphid, and Slugs, each delivered with energy and emotion. Slow Motion was a standout, its dreamy, atmospheric production filling the room and pulling the audience into Champion’s world. Meanwhile, Aphid hit with sharp intensity, the crowd bouncing to every beat.

The compact room at Oslo played a huge role in the night’s energy. The low stage and close quarters created an electric, almost chaotic intimacy. Fans screamed every lyric, their voices blending with Champion’s, turning the performance into a shared experience rather than just a show.

The climax came with the final song, when Champion jumped into the crowd—a raw, unfiltered moment that broke any remaining barrier between artist and audience. The room exploded into movement, phones up, bodies colliding, and pure adrenaline taking over. It felt like a reflection of his Brockhampton days: communal, unpredictable, and unforgettable.

But what made the night truly special was the feeling of transition. Champion wasn’t running from his past—he was building on it. There were echoes of Brockhampton’s DIY spirit, but this was clearly his vision, his sound, and his moment.

As the final notes rang out and the lights came up, it was clear: Matt Champion isn’t just stepping out from Brockhampton’s shadow—he’s carving his own path. His first solo London show was more than a gig; it was a glimpse into the future. And if this night was any indication, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.