By Anna Dunphy & Jemma Dowdy First Year English
A multi-instrumentalist who has been active in the industry since the age of 12, Gary Clark Jr began playing the guitar and making appearances in local clubs in Texas during his teenage years, where he emerged as a promising solo artist. Touring latest album JPEG RAW, his visit to SWX showcased the diversity of his talents with plenty of nostalgic moments.
Whilst he states that blues will “always be [his] foundation”, Clark's work covers multiple genres, which serves as a credit to his talent. A strong believer in using his own platform to raise awareness, in the release of fourth studio album JPEG RAW, Clark called for society to unite amidst the atrocities of the COVID-19 pandemic and the brutal murder of George Floyd.
From the moment we entered SWX the atmosphere was exhilarating. Completely packed, the audience only grew in the approach to Clark's entrance. The support for the night, Magnus Berg, gave a wildly energetic performance, drawing the crowd in with his bold vocals and frenetic guitar talent in a frenzied set that perfectly set the tone for what would prove a thrilling and lively evening.
Clark's setlist entailed a variety of features from across his discography, including tracks from newest album JPEG RAW, which came out in March 2024. Opening with ‘Maktub’, an atmosphere of anticipation arose as the crowd were eager to experience his newest music.
Transitioning to a few songs from 2012 album Blak and Blu, there came an acknowledgement of familiarity from the audience, with most singing along and clapping with the band.
Arguably the most notable part of the night was the performance of ‘What About The Children’ another track from the new album which features Stevie Wonder. A refreshing performance, the song embodies Clark’s signature blues and rock genre in its opening guitar riff and was received with open arms by the audience, who took to cheering and whooping along with the rock and roll style.
Much of Clark's magic is reliant on his band who performed exceptionally. Retaining incredible levels of energy and enthusiasm right through the evening, their vibrancy was impossible to ignore.
Accompanied on stage by his sisters Shanan, Shawn and Savannah, who provided sophisticated vocal harmonies, Clark shared a familiar anecdote of sibling arguments over the TV remote in his introductions.
Tying together beautifully on stage, overall it proved a vibrant evening of high calibre of music and lively atmosphere.
Featured Image: Anna DunphyDo you think genre can be limiting for musicians?
