BIIG PIIG // THE ROUNDHOUSE, LONDON
Indie star delivers career-spanning celebration
★★★★☆ (4/5)
An unseasonably sunny Friday in February acted as the perfect setting for a special performance by the illustrious musician Jessica Smyth as the act Biig Piig. With the dimming of the lights, the night was ready to deliver an auditory experience which blended alternative R&B, electronic pop, and hip-hop.
Performing to a sold-out London Roundhouse, Smyth exploded onto the stage with an undeniable energy and was immediately captivating. The set was an effective blend of old favourites and fresh tracks, a testament to her evolving artistry and close connection with her fans. With her latest album arriving only three weeks before tonight’s show, there was always a danger that newer material would fall flat. However, no such issue materialised as the new tracks were received as warmly as the long-time hits.
The breezy bilingual bop of “Perdida” acted as a mission statement for the first section of the set. A cool alternative R&B cut that laments lost love. The crowd swayed along to these mid-tempo psalms, their bodies moving in sync with the rhythm, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared emotion.
Through the night a rotating cast of guests brought in new sounds and textures to the night. From upbeat energy to wailing saxophones, the night served as a highlight reel of Smyth’s collaborators and friends.
A stellar performance of the hopeful and resilient "Brighter Day” showed the emotional range in Smyth’s catalogue. The energy in the room shifted, from sombre reflection to a more uplifting and empowering ambiance. Smyth’s voice, both a delicate and powerful instrument, effortlessly took on a heartbreaking but soulful tinge. Which left a lasting impression on the audience.
A standout moment towards the end of the set was the performance of "Feels Right," a track that effortlessly blends catchy beats, jangly indie guitars and Smyth’s soulful vocals. When the thick bass lines in the chorus landed the audience couldn't help but dance, their movements mirroring the infectious energy that emanated from the stage.
Smyth’s ability to seamlessly transition between different musical styles was a testament to her musical versatility and artistry throughout. As the evening progressed the early lo-fi mid-tempo songs became densely layered rave tracks, transporting the audience from the stately roundhouse to a sweat-soaked nightclub.
The setlist heavily featured songs from her albums "Others" and “11:11" while also featuring tracks from her extensive collection of ep’s. This helped to showcase the depth and breadth of her discography. Each song was a carefully selected piece of a larger puzzle, revealing the complexities of her musical journey. The audience was treated to both the melancholic and the upbeat, and the increasing vibrancy of the songs helped the performance feel narratively complete.
Throughout the night, Smyth’s stage presence remained consistently lively and engaging. She effortlessly connected with the audience, bantering with the audience and providing insight into the inspiration for songs. Her gratitude to her fans, authenticity and genuine passion for her craft was palpable, creating an intimate and memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
As the final notes of the evening rang out, it was clear from the faces of those in attendance that Smyth had delivered all they had hoped for and more. A career-spanning set, a cavalcade of guests and a consistently brilliant performance made it memorable for all.