Patti Smith
London Islington Union Chapel
21st March, 2010

View: balcony, centre

Ostensibly, this was a reading to launch her book, Just Kids, which chronicles Smith’s early years and relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, from being broke on the streets of New York to achieving worldwide success in their chosen fields. But it soon swelled into a full celebration, which left devotees openmouthed with delight. Smith started her reading, admitting to nerves. Then, accompanied by Tony Shanahan on piano, she let fly with a mesmerising My Blakean Years, blossoming into her charismatic legend, from art-rock goddess on Dancing Barefoot to mesmerising wordsmith taking the packed crowd through the book’s poignant journey with selfeffacing humour. Patti then brought on two musicians she’d only met the previous night: violinist Patrick Wolf and drummer Seb Rochford, with sometime collaborator Kevin Shields picking up her acoustic guitar for a riveting Birdland. The ballads worked best below the Chapel’s dome and stained glass, including a moving Wild Leaves. After climaxing with a ragged Because The Night, Smith encored with The Jackson Song lullaby and People Have The Power. A triumphant celebration, further enhanced by Smith signing books in the foyer after the show.

Reviewed by Kris Needs
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