Braving the harsh weather conditions outside and most probably a sardine-like tube journey through the City, live music lovers flocked to Stratford Circus to catch Urban Development’s ‘Unplugged Sessions’ featuring Donae’o and guests.

Part of Urban Development’s annual contribution to the prestigious London Jazz Festival, Unplugged is all about urban music “stripped back and unplugged.”

Upcoming singer, Lovelle Hill was first to take to the stage. Accompanied by her guitarist, Lovelle belted out an array of songs one of which included ‘Ain’t It True’ (a track that helped her win a spot alongside Akon on the official 2010 World Cup anthem). Watching the south London singer on stage, it’s obvious to see why she has been likened to Etta James, Lovelle’s sugar-sweet vocals were spine-tingling and had the audience mesmerised from the start. Lovelle Hill is definitely one to watch for 2011.

“Lovelle’s sugar-sweet vocals were spine-tingling and had the audience mesmerised.”

All female Beatbox collective, The Boxettes were welcomed by an impromptu beatbox rendition from Unplugged host, Fusion. Showcasing their vocal prowess the ladies created the most complex of sounds with their mouths ranging from dance to dubstep and there wasn’t a CD in sight. Their performance was unique and it was refreshing to see a mixture of singing and beatbox. The Boxettes certainly give a new meaning to the term girl band.

It’s fair to say that biggest surprise of the night came in the form of the evening’s headliner, Donae’o. Recognisable as a staple figure from the UK Funky House scene, Donae’o’s upbeat repertoire is not one synonymous with an acoustic set or live band. Singing with just a guitarist by his side, Donae’o proved that his capabilities reach far beyond the typical funky song and instead venture into a more soul-inspired territory with tunes such as ‘I’.

“Donae’o proved that his capabilities reach far beyond the typical funky song.”

Regulars on the live music circuit, the Speakers Corner Quartet (SCQ) and Kele Le Roc also delivered great performances and the intimate surroundings of Stratford Circus really brought them up close and personal. However, the undisputed highlight of Unplugged Sessions was folk singer, Ed Sheeran. Best described as nothing short of an internet sensation, Ed whipped out his guitar and loop pedal and did what he does best. Ed’s cover of Jamie Woon’s ‘Warfaring Stranger’ was amazing, the crowd sat transfixed as his vocals bounced off the walls. Ed Sheeran is a unique artist, and anyone watching him perform would find it hard not to like his positive energy and obvious talent. To put it plainly, Ed Sheeran transcends all genres and his love of music is clear for all to see.

Unplugged was a great night jam-packed with surprises. Can we have more urban music stripped back and unplugged…pretty please!

WORDS: Nonny 'MisssN' Orakwue

Photography: Alexis Manyon

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LINKS:

• Check out photos from Unplugged Sessions here.