LUCY ROSE: A Cozy Evening Of Nostalgia
Attending a concert at the Drake Hotel’s “Underground” in Toronto feels exactly the way it sounds… underground. Intimate and trendy, I followed two flights of stairs to arrive at a dimly lit hidden venue. The large crowd of friendly Torontonians were all encompassed in the soothing music of a handsome and charmingly British, Charlie Cunningham. The room was shining with small disco balls, radiating a warm light across the room, setting up for a romantic and calming atmosphere. The moment Charlie began serenading the crowd with his first song, his young musical upbringing was evident. "I had a very musical childhood. For as long as I can remember, music was there", Charlie said to me after the gig. "Music was my first passion, and I sort of developed a growing curiosity for different types of music". His talent became recognizable immediately, with his effortless vocals supporting his melodic guitar playing, he quickly gained the attention of the room. His pleasant melodies accompanied honest lyrics for delicate songs like “Lights Off”, making it an enjoyable experience for anyone. "My lyrics have always sort of told a story. Either I am speaking to myself, or writing some sort of advice for others, but it's usually somewhat of a narrative." Charlie admitted, "my song 'Plans' was written specifically for a friend of mine" (which happens to be my favourite song of his). Beyond his meaningful lyrics, the attentive music lover would be able to hear the influence of Charlie’s time in Seville, Spain. "I went to Spain in 2012 to explore a different type of musicality [and] to have something unique to try to aim for and master; it was a good challenge for me". His flamenco guitar playing becomes more prominent in songs like “You Sigh” and “Minimum”, quickly firing up the crowd with energy. Charlie finished up a compelling set, working up the room in anticipation for an equally talented and alluring, Lucy Rose.
The crowd lit up as a beautiful strawberry-blonde entered the stage, humble and sweet, holding her guitar as if the perfect accessory. With Lucy and Charlie, it’s safe to say if their music career didn’t work out, they could have an equal opportunity in modelling. All eyes remained on Lucy, as she serenaded us with sweet vocals and tender guitar playing. Lucy mentioned it was her first sold-out show of the tour, noticing the jam packed room of the secluded venue. It was easy to see the crowd was mesmerized, as Lucy inspired every listener through each of her songs. From a delicate version of “Floral Dresses”, to a jazzy and cheerful take on “Strangest of Ways”, Lucy demonstrated her versatility while maintaining her soothing distinctive sound that we all know and love. Lucy revealed her quirky humour, as she thanked everyone for coming to her show: to the 50% who were fans of her, she announced what the next few songs would be, to the 50% who were only brought there because of their partners, don’t worry - there were only 4 of them left. Lucy tuned her guitar; “Are you guys okay with this being the most unprofessional show you’ve ever seen?”, she giggled to herself. The crowd was evidently not concerned whatsoever, as Lucy’s coy and sweet modesty was charming enough. Lucy let us into the stories of her songs, explaining ballads like “Moirai” and how they came to be. She sang each lyric with such genuine passion, it was impossible not to be pulled into the stories she told. You could almost see her most personal memories being played out as she sang each word, making me nostalgic for moments of someone else. Together, the talented Charlie and Lucy provided a beautiful evening of unique and dazzling music for everyone.
Lucy, your exquisite songs were a wonderfully warm treat on a brisk Canadian evening.
Charlie... call me.
