Live Review: Little Simz @ The Waterfront Studio, Norwich

Words originally for Outline Magazine

All photos and more in high resolution here.

Little Simz at Norwich Waterfront

I don’t go to hip-hop gigs enough. That’s what North London’s hottest new wordsmith Little Simz taught me at her phenomenal show upstairs at Norwich Waterfront.

Chuck 20 live at Norwich Waterfront Studio

The night started slow, with MCs from Simz’ own AGE 101 record label manning the decks as punters filtered in. Opening support Chuck 20 did well to build up some anticipation in the dozy room, as did Tiffany Gouché, whose L.A. accent and soaring vocals came as a surprise, but a pleasant one.

Tiffany Gouché live at Norwich Waterfront Studio

When Simz – real name Simbi Ajikawo – bounded up to the mic, the fun really began. Aged just 21 she’s already had coverage from Zane Lowe, Annie Mac and Mistajam, and she counts Snoop Dogg and Kendrick Lamar as fans too. Immediately her reputation was fulfilled, as a tsunami of rhyme and rhythm was unleashed on the room.

Dirty tracks like Dead Body and Intervention were fired out next to the almost ballad-like God Bless Mary and Wings, beautifully moulding the ebb and flow of the crowd’s liveliness and allowing Simz to showcase old material against new. The unifying factor? Every track had an overwhelming sense of power and passion behind it, making for a humbling experience as a new fan.  

Technical issues cut the set in half, but things got back on track quickly and smoothly. A riotous stage invasion blurred the lines between performer and audience, as did one lucky fan getting ‘happy birthday’ sung to them, bringing an endearingly personal quality to the show.

The night ended with the return of Simz’ crew and a duet with Chuck 20 blowing the Waterfront a new one under dazzling strobe lights. Ticking every box on the list of things you could aim for in a debut headline show, Little Simz is a force to be reckoned with. It was a privilege to catch her in such a tiny venue, when this incredibly capable, fresh new face has clearly got a stellar future ahead of her.

Little Simz' debut album A Curious Tale of Trials + Persons is out now,

on her own AGE 101 label.

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