REVIEW: ALEX WINSTON AT BRISTOL COOLER (15/06/11)
Several months after being praised for her ‘distinctively British indie sound’ and being compared to the likes of Lyyke Li; Alex Winston is on tour. As she came on stage and flew straight into her opening song, she wasting no time in getting the evening started. I was surprised when she paused introduce to herself: she is American. Everything about her sound is reminiscent of the hordes of British female artists who are coming into their own: her voice, soulful at times, akin to Adele’s, whilst she navigates up and down octaves to reach the climax or chorus the delicacy of her voice reminds us of the Mumford cover she uploaded.
A few of her early songs proved popular with the audience, whom Alex continued to involve in her performance. After gaining our permission she launched into some newer material, which perpetuated her varied sound: ‘Locomotive’ jumping from powerful vocals, to a nod, to the softly spoken lyrics of Ellie Goulding. The ferocity of her lyrics and delivery suggests a diva ‘one wrong move and we’re through’ which is contradicted by the fact she enjoyed a beer in the bathroom with a couple of fans who she thanked for having arrived early. Nothing about Alex Winston is easy to define. As a result she ticks a lot of boxes, she even plays an instrument: the tambourine. Her stage presence was commanding, without being overwhelming. Her sister wives, stage right; provided an at times haunting accompaniment and were responsible for several variations of handclaps throughout the set. Alex pulled several members of the audience to join her and her English band on stage for the final song, confirmation that her fierce attitude is reserved to her lyrics.
In this niche-obsessed time, Alex needs to decide how she is going to bring her music: to those fans who were there for day one, picking up more on tour and keep them entertained with the eclectic treats her album offers? Or will she choose a style, genre and stick to it. Judging by tonight’s performance, the former is the only viable option. And if America isn’t ready for her yet, we’re more than happy to have her in the meantime.
Words: Georgette Keane
Photo: Laura Palmer
