Last night’s ILUVLIVE was an exciting diverse showcase, which once again displayed the amazing talent of the up and coming and emerging stars within the UK.

Rachel Mckenzie, the open mic winner from last week’s show, set it off this week and greeted the crowd with a sparkling, ‘Hi, ILuvLive!’ The sense of sisterhood was clear between her and her backing singers, as they worked to form a cheeky rapport with the ladies in the audience. Putting on a passionate performance, showcasing her husky, but sweet voice with a cover of Floetry’s ‘Say Yes’; she let the audience know that she was in a 'neo-soul' mood.

Deemed as a rising social commentator, Hackney-born, conscious rapper Brotherman was a definite highlight of the show. His insightful verses and jazzy-soulful-honeysweet voice on the chorus of his opening song wooed the audience. His performance of ‘In the UK’, featuring his brother Stranger, brought a grimy twist to his set. The contrast of the soft piano and drums, set against rapping, was a magic combination.

When the time came for the traditional open mic session, there were initially only four hopefuls signed up to perform. However, after the initial performances, loads of audience members rushed to sign up. Two winners were required this week. Competition was tough, but ultimately it was a female dominated affair, in which Y N Solo and Katrina Belto won the opportunity to open next week’s show.

Dubai born Hamdan Al-abru was definitely not one to disappoint. Now residing in London, his world class performance proved why he has worked alongside the likes of Kanye West, Timbaland, Ziggy Marley, Kelly Rowland and Joss Stone. Showcasing a voice that speaks to the soul, he opened up with an acapella of his ‘Mr Brandyman’. The high notes within his cover of John Lennon’s 'Come Together' sent chills down spines, as strong vocals pushed through the rocky instrumental. His efforts were rewarded with a wild response from the audience.

Female headliner Kcat and Divine Unity also gave strong performances on the night. Kcat opened with her rendition of Alicia Keys ‘If I Aint Got You’, which although ambitious, nevertheless had the crowd vibing and singing along. She also performed Top 20 UK smash hit ‘My Destiny’, showing how her voice really suits garage and baseline.

Then there were the singers of God, life and love - Divine Unity. The girls are born entertainers. The gospel contrasted with R&B vocals, smooth harmonies with rock and ska rhythms, presenting gospel music in a non-stereotypical form. The girls' performance was well choreographed with ample attitude. Their energy was admirable and the girls showed great potential for success in the future.

In regards to energy, it’s impossible to leave out energetic male crew Nu Brand Flexx. Now just consisting of Boya, Sas and Peigh, Nu Brand's ‘colourful and funky’ dress sense correlates perfectly with their current music. They performed their latest single ‘Runway’, which went down a treat with the audience, after which Sas stated that it’s important to know what you want to look like when you wake up in the morning. The futuristic rock/dance feel to their music leaves room for potential club bangers, which will go down nice in Magaluf, where they’ll be performing next week...

WORDS: KYOMI WADE