Under The Radar's 3rd Birthday Party

Under The Radar:

Wednesday Night saw The Finsbury taken over by a sea of artists and music-lovers, all in attendance for the most incredible night of upcoming musicians; Under The Radar's 3rd Birthday party. Under The Radar is an events promoting and music loving platform that shines a spotlight on the best female and gender expansive artists coming up through the music scene. Led by Official Shannon, Under the Radar has become so much more than a standard promoter, instead growing into a community platform, and one of the real corner stones of the emerging artist scene. This was made abundantly clear through the wholesome photos of past events that covered surfaces and walls throughout The Finsbury's gig room. These acted as a timely reminder of not just Under The Radar's growth and impact, but also of how much joy music can bring to the masses, and why keeping grassroots music alive is so important.

The 3rd Birthday line-up is one of the very best Under the Radar have put together, featuring a genre-spanning trio of artists who were welcomed with open arms by the packed out Finsbury. The night was opened by the powerful acoustic stylings of singer-songwriter Izzii Grace, who was followed by the stellar neo-soul group Achilles Heel. The night was headlined by anthemic artist Rose White, closing a night that will long in the memory of all in attendance.

 

Izzii Grace:

After Official Shannon welcomed the audience to the evening, Izzii Grace took to the stage. However before beginning their set Izzii first had to partake in a pre-set introduction challenge, something which has become a staple of Under the Radar shows. This special introduction saw Izzii challenged to an impromptu riff off by Shannon, showcasing the mesmerising vocals that both artists have to offer. After the audience deemed both artists passed this riff-based test, shown by the rapturous applause given, Izzii took centre stage. Their set was an emotional rollercoaster in the best possible way, blending some of the most gut-wrenchingly beautiful songs with the most hilarious links between songs. Izzii radiates charisma on stage, interacting with the audience in a way many stand-up comics would be proud of, whilst also managing to portray the poignant stories behind so many of the tracks. Despite taking to the stage with just an acoustic guitar and their vocal chords, Izzii had The Finsbury audience eating out of the palm of her hands. The crowd stood spellbound by the ethereal vocal work on display, before breaking out into a deservedly rapturous response at the end of each number. This was songwriting at it's emotional best, delivered in a way that was so infectious you couldn't help but want more.

Achilles Heel:

After a short break which allowed a number of the budding artists and industry professionals in the audience to mingle, it was time for Achilles Heel to step into the limelight. Despite their duo line-up on records, Achilles Heel played live as a four piece. Vocalist Caitlin Pinkess and Keyboardist (and brief rapper) Harry Sargent were joined on the night by the slick basslines of Genevieve Namazzi and the masterful drumming of Joe Steyn. The chemistry between all four members was palpable, bouncing off one another as the set progressed. They describe their music as 'Neo Soul / Indie Pop in all the good ways' and this truly could not have summed up their set better. Their genre-blending approach had all in attendance dancing from the get go, refusing to slow until the moment Achilles Heel left the stage. Caitlin Pinkess is a vocal powerhouse that had the audience mesmerised, whilst the skilful playing and quick-wit of Harry Sargent meant in one moment the crowd were dancing without a care in the world, and the next they were in stitches. Achilles Heel are the epitome of feel good music, and truly are a must-see act.

Before our final act of the night could begin there was still one order of business to be taken care of...Because what is a good birthday party if there's no cake! Izzii Grace returned to the stage, this time holding a birthday cake embossed with the Under The Radar logo, as the audience joined together to sing Happy Birthday. This was followed by a heart-warming speech from Official Shannon who spoke about Under The Radar's formation, future, and thanked so many people who help make night's like this possible, including talented Terriane who had been doing some truly sensational work making online content on the night. Another shout-out went to SBTM Music Personality of the Year Natalie Gray, who has recently become the Under the Rader Associate Director and started a weekly radio show with Future Hits. 

Rose White:

After this truly memorable and emotional moment celebrating all that Under the Radar has become, it was finally time for the night's headliner, Rose White. Rose is a natural at commanding stage even when stood alone, but on Wednesday we were treated to a full band performance from the pop-soul singer. Joined on stage by keyboard player Tommy, bassist Sam, guitarits Valerio, and drummer CJ, Rose an co. delivered an energetic set worthy of headlining such an occasion. With every song that passed the crowd became increasingly engrossed in the soul and funk fuelled pop they were being given. Rose moves around the stage like a natural performer, commanding the audience through every note as they danced alongside her. Her vocal work is truly spectacular, combining tones reminiscent of Amy Winehouse with the power of Lauryn Hill. That is not to say however that Rose White is a copy of any other artist, she is a superstar who has the presence of a natural born performer, and the songs and talent to back it up. A deserved headliner, and an artist who will no doubt headline more and more over the coming years.