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N-Dubz

LITTLE-known live music The Academy played host to urban warriors N-Dubz recently when they brought their own brand of grime to Basingstoke.

Unless you frequent urban music's Channel U, you may be thinking "N-Dubz who?" about now. But believe me, their catchy brand of grime (a word describing a particular style of street-smart urban music, which apparently is linked to the wearing of woolly bobble hats) is proving extremely popular.

Although they only played four tracks, which was a bit of a let down, they appropriately chose to perform those with a universal appeal, including the self-entitled debut N-Dubz and the ringtone smash-hit Better Not Waste My Time. Personally I was rooting for the gritty Love For My Slums, recently featured on Channel U, but you can't have it all I suppose.

Not a particular fan of grime (and yes, it probably is an 'age' thing that I won't apologise for, so there!) I do however appreciate good beats, emotive lyrics and the honest to goodness response from an audience - and they loved N-Dubz.

Warming up the crowd and setting the pace was K.O Kid AKA Daniel Cavanagh. This local lad has recently signed to Headline Management, who are working on securing a recording contract on his behalf and it isn't difficult to share the enthusiasm for this talented young man.

Considering that his songs are largely unknown (at the moment), he commanded attention from his audience and had good stage presence. It was hard to believe this was only his fourth performance and landing a support slot with N-Dubz at this early stage in his career carries much kudos.

My only gripe is that the vocal was too low in the mix during his entire set, despite attempts from his management to rectify the situation. Consequently the Kids' lyrics, despite the passionate delivery, were muffled.

A disappointing predicament as, judging from the little that I could make out, I have a feeling that this is one Kid whose observations of (his particular) urban life may have actually been worth listening to. Curiously, I am keen to see him perform again soon.

-Sam Carter

Basingstoke's KO Kid

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