Standing at around six foot and sporting a large mop of messy ginger hair, Sam Isaac is a far from average looking pop-star. But as soon as he picks up his six string acoustic guitar it becomes clear that his performances are far from average as well.
This young singer/songwriter from Malvern has seemingly mastered the art of the acoustic pop song, with every number tonight succeeding in making me feel warm and tingly. Ably assisted by backing guitarist Matt Randall, Isaac produced a set at Nottingham's Bodega Social that never failed to hit the right notes.
Around forty souls witnessed the gig and they saw a man who must surely be destined for better things. Mainly playing songs from the Sticker, Star & Tape mini-album, Isaac’s vocals were particularly impressive - passionate and heartfelt, but at the same time loud and full of energy.
Lyrically he showed a talent and maturity that lies way beyond his young years, and it is hard not to relate to his raw, down to earth observations on life, love and relationships.
Highlights included Sideways, a pacy, jangly tune about growing up and leaving home, and new single Fire Fire, with its distinctive opening riff and catchy chorus. These were proof enough that Isaac can produce fast, fun, mainstream hits that wouldn‘t sound out of place on any radio playlist.
On the flipside, the more sombre What Good Did That Do? and the darker Annie Hall slowed things down a bit and showed that Sam has also mastered the art of emotion and pathos in his music. These slower numbers complimented the faster songs beautifully, creating a perfect mixture of pounding acoustic pop and gentle, quieter sensitivity.
Isaac occasionally plays with a band, and one can only speculate at how much better the songs would sound when spruced up with a variety of instruments. It is testament to him, however, that he managed to produce such an assured display predominantly on his Jack Jones. He also spent a lot of time talking to the crowd tonight, and while for some that habit would grate, it also displays a confidence that will take him far in the industry. Encouraging the small audience to get involved on Carbon Dating and I Traded My Friends For You, Isaac demonstrated that he won’t be intimidated when fame and recognition come calling.
This would be the least this man deserves, as his music strikes a chord which gets under your skin and is difficult to shake off. To put it simply, Isaac makes brilliant music without ever trying too hard and in a world full of acts trying to be too clever, he really is a breath of fresh air.
Review: Dan Palmer
Images: Jack Ladenburg
