TomTalks #27: Lowkey-Hare and Hounds, Birmingham (A Night of Powerful Statements)

 

Lowkey is widely regarded as one of the most important voices in the U.K. scene, which I myself realised the first time I heard his track 'Terrorist?' His work in both the rap scene and as a political activist includes highlighting the conflict in Palestine, workers rights, and as part of The Stop The War Coalition. Having released acclaimed works like 'Soundtrack to the Struggle...' he is someone I wanted to see live, and boy did this show deliver.

Lowkey very much proved on the night how skilled he was as a lyricist, as well as a performer. He got the crowd involved in many a situation who knew his music word for word, a sign of the impact he has made. He also spoke to the crowd at many points on the media's attempts to paint striking workers as the enemy and the lack of support for the Palestinian people. His words were very powerful, highlighting him as not only a talented artist but also a spokesperson for those in need.

The majority of the music came from 'Soundtrack to the Struggle...' with tracks like the title track and 'My Soul' starting proceedings. With the crowd fully involved, Lowkey showed his ability to curate crowd involvement, giving his performance that extra special touch.

'Terrorist?' as I have already mentioned is a powerful track with its stance against the hypocrisy of society in painting Muslims as terrorists after 9/11. Another one of the most important moments of the night was his performance of 'Long Live Palestine.' Supporting the nation of Palestine in 2023 is not widely regarded in mainstream society, with many claiming it is Anti-Semitic. This is quite obviously not the case, and people like Lowkey showing their support is very important. With Palestinian flags raised across the room, and many chanting 'Free Palestine' it was one of the night's significant moments.

Fan interaction wasn't just from in the crowd, with Lowkey getting two fans on stage to perform with him on 'Revolution' and 'Obama Nation.' It was a lovely moment and maybe showed two of the next generation of MCs. Lowkey would show off his own abilities with his 'Fire In The Booth,' an acapella freestyle, and his freestyling through the alphabet. The latter in particular was sensational to watch, showing he is truly one of the most talented rappers in the country, as the crowd cheered him on from A-Z.

The night ended with the lights turning off for an emotional performance of 'Ghosts of Grenfell' from 'Soundtrack to the Struggle 2.' It was another emotional moment that referenced the tragic events of the Grenfell fire and the desire for justice for those who died. Just like the rest of the set, it made a statement on something that most of society has chosen to ignore/move on from, bringing things to a close appropriately.

I found a newfound respect for Lowkey on the night. Not only is he a man of substance, using his position to help others, but a talented performer. Meeting everyone at the end was a lovely touch, as was thanking everyone in the building including the staff. If you get a chance to see Lowkey live, go for it as it is a night you won't forget.

5/5

Lowkey is on Instagram and Twitter.

Tickets for his final date at Junction, Cambridge on 25th March are here.

For updates on future content, follow the Instagram and Twitter.