Michael Kiwanuka and Brittany Howard with Yasmin Williams at Mission Ballroom
Denver, CO
October 8, 2024
Photos by David A. Barber

@MissionBallroom @MichaelKiwanuka @brittanyhowardofficial @yasminmwilliams #RockOnColo

Review

The delightful Yasmin Williams opened the show for Micahel Michael Kiwanuka and Brittany Howard. Williams kept it simple by playing instrumental numbers on an acoustic guitar. Normally, this kind of thing might sound like boring background music, but not from this performer. Ms. Williams held the growing crowd in the palm of her hand. She received thunderous applause at the end of each song. After a couple songs, she turned the guitar to sit strings-up on her lap. Then she pulled out a small metal hammer and explained that she would use it to play her instrument. We’ve never seen anything like that before. She explained that this was how she learned to play the guitar before she had any lessons. She also used a board beneath her feet to add rhythmic beats to some numbers. Each song was unique and delightful. What a treat!

After clearing Wiliams’ chair, Brittany Howard took the stage with a full band (guitars, bass, drums, keys, and 2 backing vocalists) backing her up. She played familiar songs we’ve all been hearing on KBCO and favorites from the Alabama Shakes. Her beautiful vocals were sweet and powerful all at the same time. Howard’s performance captivated the happy audience.IN addition to vocals, she picked up an electric guitar on a few of her jazzy blues songs. Howard is an American vocalist in her prime. Go see her any chance you get!

Following the impressive clearing of the whole stage to load in a completely new stage setup, Michael Kiwanuka took over. He also had a full band but with 3 backing vocalists. I was familiar with a few of his songs from the radio but was completely entertained by every song he played. His smooth jazzy, yet contemporary, sound was welcomed and celebrated by everyone in the room. If you have teh chance ot catch Kiwanuka live, always do it!

Photos:

Michael Kiwanuka

Brittany Howard

Yasmin Williams