REVIEW: Jazzmanix Summer Concert

Jazzmanix, the University’s gospel choir society comprising of over 100 members, once again formed an impressively large and distinctive choir as well as showcasing some outstanding smaller acapella groups in this year’s summer concert.

The summer concert is the traditional last performance for the group and shows off their year’s work. In my opinion, they smashed it.

Quintessential, a group of five led by Greg White, opened the show with ‘Glasgow Love Theme’ from Love Actually, but what stood out for us was their energetic rendition of a Michael Bublé medley, which was a fun and polished performance.

Out of the remaining small groups (all of whom were knock-your-socks-off good) Nove amazed us the most with their rendition of Unaware by Allen Stone. This group consists of eight girls, all with versatile voices, coming together creating an unforgettable performance.

Considering the talent displayed in this first half, I felt it was a shame that more wasn’t done to give each group more of a presence. An empty stage behind them was screaming out to be blessed with their brilliance.

The presence of a band in the second half was a great addition, accompanying the entrance of the full choir. This then lead straight into the upbeat Bruno Mars medley, which spread smiles across the faces of the entire audience.

Three songs featured soloists, of whom the standout was Liv Chant, who blew us away with Alicia Keys/Aretha Franklin mashup of ‘If I Ain’t Got A Natural Woman’ (you can see a past performance ).

After reading past criticism for their gospel section I must say we appreciated the gospel songs, particularly ‘Father Father’, which was a feel good moment. You don’t need to be a certain religion to appreciate good music.

Finally, a special mention to Joe Nurse, whose love and commitment to this choir paid off with great arrangements throughout.

We look forward to the next concert.

Were you at the Summer Concert? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!