On Saturday night, Ziggy Alberts delivered an unforgettable performance at London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town, marking the second of two consecutive nights at the venue as part of his New Love world tour. The independent Australian singer-songwriter and poet, known for his introspective lyrics and breezy Indie folk sound, captivated the audience with both his musical talent and down-to-earth charm.
From the moment he stepped onto the stage—barefoot and sporting his signature mullet and moustache—Ziggy’s laid-back demeanour set the tone for the evening. He humorously laid down some “rules” for the night, reminding the crowd that despite his appearance, he expected to be taken seriously. This blend of humour and authenticity endeared him to the audience, creating an intimate atmosphere that lasted throughout the show.
Ziggy Alberts @ O2 Forum Kentish Town
The 30-year-old seamlessly wove his poetry into his performance, adding depth to his songs and resonating with the crowd. The integration of spoken word with music was not only well-received but also highlighted his multifaceted artistry.
Among the setlist were new tracks such as this year’s fifth LP Dancing In The Dark single Outlaw, a song that delves into the struggle of standing out while trying to fit in—a theme many find relatable in a world full of social expectations. The performance of Stronger, a deeply emotional piece about the challenges of maintaining relationships while being a touring musician, was particularly poignant. Alone with his piano, Alberts poured his heart into the song, and at one point the crowd joined in, filling in the lyrics as he continued to play—a moment that undoubtedly left a lasting impression.
A highlight of the night was when the Queensland-hailing musician surprised the audience by appearing at the back of the venue on a smaller stage to perform sophomore LP cut Warm Coffee and the as yet unreleased Where Does The Love Go. This intimate setup allowed him to engage directly with his fans, inviting them to clap along and sing in unison. The closeness of this mid-crowd performance intensified the connection between artist and audience, amplifying the sense of community and shared experience.
Returning to the main stage, Alberts kept the energy high with songs like Heartbeat, which he dedicated to a friend who was unwell. The 2020 single exploring themes of heartbreak, trust, love, and hope, was a crowd favourite, with fans singing along passionately.
The evening reached another emotional peak when Ziggy invited Steph Strings to join him on stage for a duet of third LP Four Feet In The Forest single Runaway. Their voices blended beautifully, transforming the song about guarded emotions and vulnerability into an upbeat, energetic performance. Strings, who is currently touring with Ziggy as his support act, proved to be a perfect match, and they had the crowd dancing and singing along.
As the show neared its end, Alberts treated the fans to New Love, another hit from his latest LP that had everyone singing and dancing. The night concluded with an electrifying rendition of 2018 single Laps Around the Sun, leaving the audience waving and singing along in a shared moment of joy and unity.
Ziggy Alberts’ performance was more than just a concert—it was an experience that showcased his musical prowess, poetic soul, and genuine connection with his fans. It’s clear that Ziggy is not just a musician; he’s a storyteller, and his audience is eager to listen.
Live review and photography of Ziggy Alberts @ O2 Forum Kentish Town, London on 10th August 2024 by Catherine Beltramini.
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