On 22nd of November Manchester’s Warehouse Project and Now Wave brought one of the most accomplished electronic musicians to town, Jon Hopkins.
Playing in the esteemed Albert Hall, the stage was set to be a very special occasion, and my friend and I were palpable with excitement. We decided to go to straight to the balcony, as we thought there would be more space, but it didn’t seem like there was any. Hopkins start proceedings with his imperious opener ‘Singularity’ from his acclaimed album of the same name. However, As expected, overcrowding was a big issue so after a while we found a nice spot with a good view of the screen showing some incredible visuals, combining Hopkins’ music videos with some enigmatic extras. Coupled with the incredible music an offer, it was quite a spectacle.
Hopkins mostly played songs from his new album but found time to include old classics like ‘Open Eye Signal’ and his beautiful remix of Disclosure’s ‘Magnets’. The intensity of the live set was something I was taken aback and amazed by, whether it be heavy techno or more emotional, laid back electronica. My friend said his music was probably the only thing that could’ve made up for the horrendous overcrowding – and I’m inclined to agree.
I can’t think of another act who could put on such a breath-taking show, only using their own music as well. Despite the overcapacity setback it is a night I will treasure for a long time.
Lawrence Cwerner