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On February 14th, George Erith took to Oporto's stage to deliver what music editor Lizzie Harley describes as "the most incredible set"...
While currently studying at Leeds Conservatoire, George is taking the music scene by storm. Having become completely obsessed with his only released song on Spotify, 'We'll Be Alright', I had to go and see what else he could do - and trust me, he did not disappoint!
His first song, 'Hand Gliders' recalled his experiences of student life followed in his good-vibes-only fashion that echoed his upbeat indie Spotify single. The cheery, almost cheeky, melody of George on mic and guitar matched with his equally uplifting spirit, combined to create the perfect texture of jovial bliss. Even George's effortlessly chilled vocals with his masterful tailing off at the end of certain notes, added to the relaxed quality of his music. No wonder he appears on Spotify's renowned playlist 'good energy': he embodies just that!
Not only did his music bring the audience into an eclectic rave of sheer joy, the comedic and charming presence of George and his accompanying band brought just as much delight to the crowd. The energy between George and his band mates was electric, especially when keyboard player Olly Raymond playfully improved some classics, performing the likes of 'Tequila' and the Wii Theme Tune song which had all of us in pieces. The camaraderie between George and his bandmates seemed so natural, like they were all just playing around and improvising for their own enjoyment. Their performance made the audience feel equally at ease which elevated the happy, chill vibes of George's music even more. Especially with the crowd being filled with George's family and friends, his set was spirited with so much support and admiration which sealed the unanimous sense of glee.
When speaking to the crowd members, I discovered much attention was drawn to George's stage presence which foregrounded the image of his music. I was told George's beaming energy of joy made him such a "great frontman", and that his suit of head-to-toe leopard print was simply "fantastic". The complete adoration amongst his friends could be summed up in one comment: "absolutely love him". This encapsulated the energy of admirability which filled the room and his music to the brim with pride.
The creativity of George and his bandmates really shone through with their cover of Florence and the Machine's 'You've Got the Love'. By increasing the original song's speed and level of drums, together with an enhanced bassline, they transformed the song into their own distinct indie sound. The audience was then surprised to hear the song evolve into 'Heart Skips a Beat' by Olly Murs featuring Rizzle Kicks. This effortlessly unexpected transition flaunted their creative capabilities as they brought a pop and alternative indie song together in true harmony to produce a George Erith-styled masterpiece. I think every twenty-or-so year old in the audience felt nostalgically transported to the music of their childhood which demonstrated the genius versatility of George and his band members.
George went onto play some more amazingly masterful originals - 'Roller Skates', 'Wherever We Go' and 'Face for Radio' - which continued in his true authenticity of indie bliss. These songs gave the audience an exciting insight into his future releases to come as George put his fanatics at ease with the news that "hopefully this is the year we release more tracks". Closing the show with his one Spotify hit, ‘We’ll Be Alright’, the audience really did feel alright with the knowledge that more absolute insane songs like this will be available to add to our own playlists.
So, if you haven’t been lucky enough to stumble across George Erith yet, get listening to ‘We’ll Be Alright’ and get ready for him to continue flourishing in his genuine and fun indie fashion.
Words: Lizzie Harley
Photo: Lizzie Harley | https://open.spotify.com/artist/1hQ6HCHuS8BqCCcURgx9fn