There’s a quiet majesty to Charlotte Day Wilson’s work that is both striking, and hugely understated. Part of a golden generation of Toronto alt-R&B talent, her soulful vocals are matched to a mind that draws on all corners of the musical spectrum, from club tropes to left-field jazz via her own personal Quiet Storm. Tonight, her show at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire draws on her multi-faceted strengths to produce a triumphant set that is all the more striking for its unassuming nature.
—
—
Joined by a number of close friends onstage – at points this evening, we’re led to believe virtually everyone in Toronto is an acquaintance – the first few songs are spent limbering up, the musicians stretching out. The material draws from her excellent 2021 debut ‘Alpha’, and this year’s assured, potent follow-up ‘Cyan Blue’. Songs like ‘Dovetail’ and ‘Do U Still’ allow Wilson to soar, her natural gifts as a vocal resulting in a mature sense of empathy.
Often the material borders on torch song, but for all its florid introspection tonight also holds some moments of joyous unity. A noted collaborator, when ‘Still’ and ‘What You Need’ are unfurled – both produced by fellow Canadian artist KAYTRANADA – there’s a palpable vibe shift, the crowd limbering up in the process.
—
—
This seems to trigger something in the building – Charlotte Day Wilson is moving with absolute confidence, playing teasing out new aspects of her material. Title song ‘Cyan Blue’ is gorgeous, ‘Lovesick Utopia’ is divine, and the band’s take on ‘In Your Eyes’ – one of many collabs with Toronto types BADBADNOTGOOD – offers up an elastic piece of jazz-funk.
Charlotte Day Wilson’s path has never been straightforward. Critical praise has been lavished on her every release, but – as she freely admits onstage – there have been points where she felt like she was hitting a brick wall, and that the rules of this music game were simply too tough. Dedicating the encore to her partner, Charlotte Day Wilson unveils something new, her voice quivering with emotion; both dedication and lyric speak of perseverance, and pursuance, the refusal to give up. Laying it all out there, the songwriter claims to her struggle as her own – artfully precise, the sheer beauty of her work is undeniable.
—
—
Words: Robin Murray
—
