THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND | MILES KANE’S HOMECOMING

LIVE REVIEW | MILES KANE @ ARTS CLUB, LIVERPOOL By Keira Knox

Many phenomenal artists have risen from the Merseyside music scene over the years, Birkenhead native Miles Kane is just one of those, and he brought his One Man Band show back home on Thursday night at Liverpool’s Arts Club.

Ellis Murphy

Joining Kane on his homecoming shows is young folk musician, Ellis Murphy, one of Liverpool’s brightest new talents climbing through the ranks. A phenomenal set from the young musician, whose vocals defy his age, turning back the clock to the folk sounds of the 60’s, effortlessly blending Bob Dylan-esque instrumentals with distinctive scouse vocals. His track ‘Time’ was a standout within his set. A masterfully composed track, alongside his mesmerizing harmonica skills make him a recipe for success.

Miles Kane

Around 8 p.m, the lights went down and the main attraction emerged. The crowd erupted before Miles Kane had ever played a note, and the first few bars of ‘West End Girls’ lit up the venue with excitement. The dynamic singer opened the show by launching into the tour’s namesake, ‘One Man Band.’ He patrols the stage with his guitar and looks out into the audience with a swagger that has become somewhat of a rarity these days.

It was an incredible sight to witness such a diverse variety of admirers, from adolescents who were finding him for the first time to those who have been there from the start, as ‘Rearrange’ and ‘The Wonder’ lit up the crowd. Miles Kane leaves the audience in awe of his extraordinary guitar playing skills and pure talent, proving that he is one of the most underappreciated all-around musicians of this generation.

‘Cry On My Guitar’ is a timeless rock song that explores those unquestionably renowned guitar riffs and pays homage to the Merseyside music scene of the 1960s. ‘Coupe de Grace’ has some amazing soloing by Miles Kane and is unexpectedly groovy. Other hits from Kane’s previous albums, including ‘Counting Down The Days,’ ‘Shavambacu,’ and ‘Colour Of The Trap,’ were included in the 17-track package. These songs got the audience to join in, arms encircling one another as they all sang in unison. Kane turned to the audience and declared, “It’s been too long Liverpool!” demonstrating that sense of unity as well.

If new wave glam rock had an unlikely hero, then Miles Kane wins the title, he crosses that genre with his distinctive indie brand, which can be a powerful mix for those who haven’t heard any of his music before. ‘Don’t Forget Who You Are’, ‘The Best Is Yet To Come’, and ‘Inhaler’ all collectively blend his indie sound with a sprinkling of glam rock, a combination that on paper may not go together but Miles Kane makes it sound effortless.

Miles Kane’s discussion of his Merseyside heritage and his invitation to Liverpool legend Dave McCabe of The Zutons to perform a cover of ‘You Will You Won’t’ were the evening’s high points. With Kane playing bass and taking a backseat, McCabe grabbed the lead vocals on his song, allowing his fellow Liverpool artist to take the spotlight.

The surprise guests didn’t end there. One of Kane’s greatest songs, ‘Come Closer,’ brought support artist Ellis Murphy into the mix to perform harmonica on the song, capping off this legendary musical evening. Even though they had only met that day, the two collaborated flawlessly, incorporating folk elements into this classic indie song.

He is more than just an artist, and it is far more than just a homecoming gig. The epitome of underappreciated is Miles Kane. Every time, he puts on a show. with vigour, fervour, and strength, but with sincerity and regard for his supporters. He demonstrates why he is a mainstay in the indie sector and is a force to be reckoned with.

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Keira Knox

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