You may not believe this but not so long ago four-piece jazz band Portico Quartet were regularly busking in front of the National Theatre before they got signed in 2007. Now with two albums under their belt, a mercury prize nomination and glorious reviews for their current album Isla the band doesn’t seem to be getting back buskin any time soon. EF was eager to check this band out live.
EF has done a fair share of gigs and most of them were more trash then glamour and the Barbican centre is a rather unusual venue if you ask us. It really isn’t the type of place we usually go to. This being jazz though it seemed almost natural to pick a more sober venue. Seems jazz isn’t meant for old people anymore looking around the Barbican was packed with a variety of people from all ages and backgrounds. As soon as Portico Quartet made their entrance we understood why as in front of us stood four relatively young men.
Portico Quartet sat quietly and started the show with mainly songs of their latest album Isla. First we were extremely impressed by their use of the hang a rather unusual choice of instrument then we were captured by the sax played by Jack Wyllie. Paper Scissors Stone was definitely a moment to remember with its catchy sax.
The band also played Visitor a slower track that progressed into a more hectic pace.
Highlights of the evening included an explosive performance of Dawn Patrol, which took our breath away. Milo Fitzpatrick on the double bass has the fastest fingers we have ever seen and really shined almost stealing the show from his bandmates. We also enjoyed Line a mellower track on the album. Portico Quartet also played Steps In The Wrong Direction from their previous album.
The band finished with an encore that delighted the audience.
The audience was in awe and so were we on Monday night. Portico Quartet are quite possible one of the tightest acts we have seen perform in a while and didn’t disappoint at any stage.
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