Kenwood House Picnic Concerts - James Blunt Review

On Saturday, I was lucky enough to be invited to see the final evening of this year's Kenwood Picnic Concerts. The Picnic Concerts have become something of an established tradition in Hampstead for a few years now, and it's something I've always wanted to go to. Oddly however, the final evening starred an artist who, in many people's opinion, didn't match up to past headliners such as Tom Jones or Liza Minnelli. Instead, we were treated to an evening with the ever so English James Blunt.

    Blunt has something of a stigma attached to him. Anyone who considers themselves to like music that's 'cool' seems to steer well clear of his chart friendly tones. I have to say I'm guilty of the same over the past few years, but headed down to Kenwood all the same.

    The set-up of the Picnic Concerts is, at the risk of sounding a little simple, just lovely. Take along your own picnic (complete with a bottle of wine or two of course) and settle down for a very English evening. Admittedly, as we walked into the 'arena', we were greeted by an announcement asking people to refrain from dancing in the aisles. This was obviously not going to be Glastonbury.

    Our support today came in the form of Ed Drewett. Drewett's songs are pleasant enough, though the gentleman in question is a tad uncharismatic. There was a general vibe that the majority of the crowd were only half listening.

    Without too much fuss, Blunt followed shortly. Early in the day, the rain had hit with a vengeance, and it was nice to see the English out in force regardless (though I couldn't help but think that the crowd wasn't as large as it likely was for Tom Jones and co). I'm sure many are expecting a scathing review from someone who doesn't enjoy Blunt's music, but to be honest, I had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Admittedly, Blunt's first couple of songs reminded me why I don't listen to him, but when he speaks, it's very hard to dislike the man. Quote of the evening? 'Well as you're all sitting down, you'll be pleased to hear I've got a **** load of miserable songs for you!' Genius.

    As Blunt's set progressed, I found myself enjoying him a lot more. The singles of course caught my ear ('Wise Men' has always been an good song, whilst 'My Lover' was as depressing as you'd expect) but it was in the last few songs that things really picked up. His band got to show off and the vibe could actually almost be described as 'rocking'.

    I'd highly recommend heading down to one of the Kenwood Picnic Concerts next year. They always manage to book some big names, and often some exclusives for the summer. Next year, buy a ticket for an act you wouldn't normally consider seeing, pack a bag with more food and drink than you can consume, and just hope the rain stays away!