I was first lucky enough to see Jack Garratt live in April of 2016. In the near four years since that show, it’s been one of a few live performances that I’ve often found myself thinking back to. I arrived a tad late and had an obscured view for most of the performance so had to spend most of the show just listening to, rather than watching the gig. Despite that, it was easily one of the best gigs I’ve seen heard, with such amazing energy and skill displayed by Garratt throughout, that I knew I had to see him live again – properly.

Little did I know back in 2016 that Garratt would decide to take a break from music, a three and a half year long break to be precise. Luckily, on the final night of his ‘Work In Progress’ tour, I was fortunate enough to be one of the 750 people who got to witness the musical genius of Jack Garratt once again in person, at EartH in Hackney.

Upon entrance to the sold-out venue, we were handed a small flyer with a personal note written by Garratt. The note explained:

“Tonight’s performance will be one of the first times I’ve played any new music publicly in about 2 years, Because of this, I respectfully ask that you turn your phones to silent – put them in the bag provided and enjoy the show without photographing, recording or sharing any of the show tonight.

Out of respect for Garratt I’ll withhold most of the exact details of the gig, new songs, personal stories and more, but I decided to still needed to write this review to share how incredible Garratt’s performance was.

Over the course of his 90 minute set, Garratt joked with the crowd, told stories and anecdotes behind new tracks and old favourites, all whilst putting on the most incredible performance. His voice was flawless. His use of lighting and staging was perfect. Above all, the pure talent on display was just spell-bounding; as he played drum pads, guitar, piano all whilst still putting his heart and soul into every track he sang, giving everyone shivers as we sat in silence absorbing the magic being performed metres in front of us.

As he finished up his set, Garratt was met by a standing ovation from all in attendance. It didn’t feel like we’d just watched a gig, the vibe was more as if we’d witnessed an artist complete a work of art. He promised the crowd it wouldn’t be four years until we next saw him again, before leaving the stage and I pray he keeps that promise.

Garratt’s new album, ‘Love, Death & Dancing‘ is set to be released June 12th and I pray that more live performances follow, so others can appreciate the musical genius that is Jack Garratt.