Rhiannon Giddens is a beacon for meaningful music. The self-described 'cultural archaeologist' brings many facets to the stage underpinned by definable musical talent and a sense for enlightened justice. This Limerick-based North Carolinian is in a buoyant phase of a celebrated career. The wider world has embraced a new album delivering a rare delve into entirely original material, while seismic potential surfaces from playing banjo on Beyonce's dip into country music. For a smaller set, the enticing prospect of touring with a full band has built upon the esteem of generating appreciation from more slimline stage set ups. Twelve months on from a duo performance at Birmingham Town Hall with partner Francesco Turrisi, the multi-dimensional six-piece line up returned to the zone and the transformation was immense without shedding any intimate personal appeal.
A major development between shows was the liberation of Giddens from a fairly intense performer to a majestic band leader. It transpires the musicians in tow have been around for a while, but in the five times seeing her play live over the last nine years their full presence can't be recalled. Memorable nights are born from inventive bouts of excellence and the barometer of Rhiannon Giddens stock edged further upwards after two stunning sets in the final throes of the current tour.
Powell, from Lafayette Louisiana, is a widely renowned American roots purveyor with multiple strings and keys filling the air this evening from a musical prowess. He was the architect of the back-to-basics segment when the the band stepped up front to deliver a timeless take on 'God Gave Noah the Rainbow Sign' and another upbeat old time rural song injecting retro energy into the air.
With the fiddle and banjo of Giddens holding court in the centre, the front row was completed by Congolese guitarist Niwel Tsumbo bringing African rhythms to the sound. He also thrived in the spotlight when afforded the space to spin a couple of tunes.
The sturdy backfield of drummer Attis Clopton, bassist Jason Sypher continually hopping between stand up and electric and the aforementioned Turisso added a dynamic solidity. The latter, a firm fixture next to Rhiannon Giddens in all aspects of her life, brought an air of his Italian roots with an instrumental piece titled 'Briggs' Forro', although international horizons are blurred when music emanates from the keys and accordion of this distinguished performer.
The set list called at various points of Giddens' solo career. Highlights from the new album included the poignant 'Another Wasted Life', the compellingly uplifting 'Hen in the Foxhouse' and the accomplished 'Yet to Be'. Another top moment from a special night was an emotive version of 'We Could Fly' off the FREEDOM HIGHWAY album. As per usual, the spoken moments exuded passion, intellect and insightful intuition.
While intent shifts into a genre-less sphere, the music of Rhiannon Giddens spawns evidence of certain styles being re-energised and re-focussed. It shines a light on embedded traits and paves the way for evolution. Country, folk, old-time string music and any other type pulling in the talents of this performing maestro is given a boost. Although strong forces dictate the mission on many fronts, Rhiannon Giddens purrs with entertainment value. Wrap the message with appeal and its lessons will prosper.
