SHARON JONES AND THE DAP KINGS (London Roundhouse, 03/11/10)



On the whole I've got no beef with the Roundhouse, but it's sometimes curiously devoid of atmosphere. A case in point: Ms. Sharon Jones and her Dap Kings. She's a vital, overwhelmingly charismatic performer, blessed with powerhouse vocals and a repetoire of songs that make the most of her talents. Her band is excellent; brassy, punchy and soulful. If this had been at the Jazz Cafe, I don't doubt it would have been one of the more memorable, joyous gigs of the year. But at the Roundhouse, something was lacking - perhaps the crowd had been thinned out by Bob Crowe's strike-happiness or something, but it never quite sparked in the way I hoped it would.

(Photo: Anika Mottershaw)