Known for energetic live shows performing songs filled with lyrics of love and enthused folk beats, King Charles usually impresses.
Unfortunately the now clean-shaven singer fails to hit the mark playing at this year’s Celtic Connections, putting on a mellower performance.
The crowd seem to be following alongside the more sombre feeling with few putting in the effort to dance along and clap to the infectious drum beats and melodic chanting for classic hits including ‘LoveBlood’ and ‘The Brightest Lights’.
Performing tracks from his new album, Gamble For A Rose, it is refreshing to see that despite having a lengthy hiatus King Charles has returned with songs more lyrically powerful than those on offer in his 2012 debut LoveBlood.
Tracks from the new album are tamer and introduce a more mature musician to the audience, which is beautifully portrayed live with songs including lyrics “why did you choke all my love away” in new song ‘Choke’, alongside a more mature sound; the main premises of all King Charles’ songs is still there, love.
Transitioning from folk and pop to rock King Charles plays with gusto, alongside his drummer and bassist, with quick riffs, pounding drums and haunting guitar work to encompass the darker vibe of Gamble For A Rose.
It isn’t until the end of the evening when King Charles well and truly steps back into his role as the regal yet eccentric prince of ‘glam folk’ and brings the crowd to life.
In what little conversation he has with the audience King Charles says: “some people say we’ve gotten serious, but we’ll see” before bouncing straight into the more poppy and upbeat ‘Bam Bam’.
As classic King Charles returns with a vengeance, all while staying in tune with the more rock infused feel of the night, he plays the classic tracks that propelled him as a serious musician with ‘Love Lust’ and closing the night, to a deafening cheer in the first few chords, with crowd favourite ‘Lady Percy’.
Going to see King Charles is a mystical experience due to the sheer song-writing on offer, elegance and regal air around him and excellent musical talent oozes throughout the evening; although it would seem the fun and ferocity for a good time has dwindled making room for a more grown up and polished musician.
Words: Lorne Gillies
