For someone with such an impressive back catalogue as Joan Armatrading, it must be hard to decide what to include in a gig.
There are the obvious choices and, indeed, she played all her big hits along with the obligatory new material and some songs which she obviously enjoys. Due to her love of performing, the impression she gives on stage is a concert is easy work, as though there is nothing simpler than entertaining a crowd for close to two hours. This is partly due to the length of her career – she has been performing for more than 30 years - and it seems to have become second nature. Backing band She also surrounds herself with some amazing musicians, who help to create an effortless show. Her backing band consisted of just two people, Gary Foot and Spencer Collins, but between them they created a striking atmosphere blending saxophone, flute, drums and keyboards. She covered an impressive array of genres in a short time, wandering through traditional acoustic singer-songwriter numbers - which is what I expected and was looking forward to - before quickly meandering through a myriad of less predictable styles.
 | | Joan Armatrading sings with emotion |
She played blues with riffs reminiscent of Santana, there were jazz numbers and even some reggae and punk songs when she swapped her acoustic guitar for an electric one. This revealed that she is a far more accomplished guitarist than her recorded music hints at. She played solos that sounded as though they'd been plucked straight out of a rhythm and blues combo, and was perfectly comfortable performing some Bob Marley-flavoured reggae. Concert highlight The high point of the gig was the rendition of one of her biggest and best-loved hits Love And Affection. Although it was performed in a different style to the studio version, it provoked the night's biggest applause. Although it was written 30 years ago, it's still arresting and is a true timeless classic. When the hollers and claps eventually died down, the singer said, 'I'm glad you still like it' as if she was surprised. Although talent and energy make for an impressive show, if they are coupled with experience then it will be an altogether more stunning performance - and Joan sizzles with all three in enviable amounts. Joan Armatrading played at the UEA, Norwich, on Friday 16 September 2005. Picture credits: Anthony Reed. | 
