Article #4115

Eventim Apollo, London
Touring his understated latest album, Small Changes, the Mercury prize-winner amplifies his gossamer grooves with no loss of charm or sophistication

We are in a drawing room, although it’s a more ample, rock’n’roll version than your great-aunt’s. Persian rugs litter the wide stage floor, while vintage lampshades cast a halogen glow over Michael Kiwanuka and his 10-strong band.

The singer-songwriter might be playing ever-grander venues since he won the Mercury prize in 2020 with his third album, Kiwanuka, but the touring setup for his most recent outing, Small Changes (2024), is a study in warmth, ease and natural fibres: wooden chairs, a statement cardigan for Kiwanuka, a felt hat.