Clean Bandit (Grammy award winning, electronic, Cambridge ensemble of Jack Patterson, Luke Patterson, Grace Chatto and Milan Neil Amin-Smith), burst onto the scene back in 2010, refreshing audiences with their hydrating electronic, classical crossover sound with ‘Mozarts House’, reaching number 17 in the UK top 40 charts. Since then Clean Bandit have catapulted their way into the main stream, receiving masses of attention from both the British and American public, but most notably winning a Grammy for their chart topping single ‘Rather Be’ featuring Jess Glynne. 5 years since their breakthrough single, Clean Bandit are still continuing to provide audiences with the rich sensual beats they always have. However mixing these with their unbelievable stage presence Clean Bandit have now transformed into one of electronics deadliest, intoxicating, live concoctions that cannot be missed.
Already incarcerated by the flawless performances of electronic ,acoustic crossover Whilk and Misky and the incredibly soulful Jess Glynne, (who treated the crowd to a debut of her new hit, ‘Hold My Hand’), the Manchester crowd brewed in a frenzy of anxiety as they waited for Clean Bandit. Like a dynamic vapour in the air, anticipation filled the bursting 02 Apollo theatre, providing an intoxicating feeling.
After an extensive half an hour wait, cue the bandit. If not already agonized by the build-up, the band nonchalantly began to appear on the stage sporadically, with Jack and Luke entering first with the backing musicians and singers. Signal the dramatic entrance of the idolised duo Grace and Neil, as they bounced onto the stage to be met by the overwhelming dynamic cry from the audience.
Among the big commercial hits that have seen Clean Bandit rise to fame, lay the intermingled original material that first got the ball rolling, however now polished off and performed to perfection. ‘A+E’ and ‘Dust Clears’ ascended as crowd favourites to an audience that appeared clued up on every song, as they harmoniously sang along word by word. The most notable crowd reaction however came from the performance of ‘Real Love’, which saw the return of the incredible Jess Glynne. Her voice sharp and piercing, ‘Real Love’ had a whole audience (which varied incredibly in age) up and dancing along, not only demonstrating the astonishing capabilities of Jess Glynne herself, but complimented the collaboration expertise Clean Bandit have begun to establish.
To draw the night to an end, the audience was treated. Clean Bandit unleashed what proved to be a stroke of genius, ‘Show Me Love’. This bold song choice catapulted the audience straight back to the early 90’s, reminiscent of the beginning of electro R&B, and had 02 Apollo’s tiers shaking. Show Me Love was the perfect way to end a great musical performance and an astonishing set list and furthermore complimented vocalists Elisabeth incredible singing capabilities.
Although electronic classical crossover is nothing new, something about Clean Bandit picks up the niche genre and throws it’s astounding aesthetics at an audience. The live string quartet gave opportunity to bring to life the more forgettable songs on the album ‘New Eyes’, such as the track ‘New Eyes’ itself. This added to another a dimension in Clean Bandit’s performance, adding a texture to the event, creating an uplifting and psychedelic experience.
It’s admittable overall that if Clean Bandit continue to create powerful hits, that are attractive to their audiences, a powerfully flawless set list could be produced, with the edition of their new single ‘Stronger’ likely to be on there. It is clear that with the vast array of age amongst the audience that there is demand for their sound. Considering all, Clean Bandit can be strongly considered as band well on their way to gaining a ‘must see’ status.