The Reed’s concert series INTRODUCING delivered an intimate experience with up-and-coming artists Feng Suave, Ama Lou and Yung Fume last Thursday October 18th.
With The Reed’s large windows facing Berlin’s famous Fernsehturm, colorful geometric ceiling lights and a sophisticated bar, it’s almost hard to believe that such a venue would offer free concerts right in the heart of the city.
Dutch psych-pop duo Feng Suave nonchalantly appeared on stage for the early crowd and kicked off their set with the sensual Honey, There’s No Time, a song that has over 3 million views on YouTube.
Each song had its own chill personality yet delivered the signature Feng Suave delicate vocals, punchy synth and relaxing reverbs
Despite hailing from just next door, Feng Suave confessed it was their first time in Germany as they put on their best accents to say “Guten Abend, mein Freunde!” and other greetings between waves of swaying songs.
Through their music Feng Suave created a dreamlike haze in the room, mesmerizing the crowd with songs from their self-titled EP, such as By The Poolside and Noche Oscura, as well as new songs. Each song had its own chill personality yet delivered the signature Feng Suave delicate vocals, punchy synth and relaxing reverbs.
Lou was without a doubt glowing on stage, as she flashed her gold grills through grins between verses
Next to take over the stage was Ama Lou from North London whose youthful energy captured everyone’s attention. If they hadn’t heard of her before, they sure aren’t going to forget her now as the 20-year-old charmed the crowd with her radiant performance.
Lou was without a doubt glowing on stage, as she flashed her gold grills through grins between verses and danced to her upbeat backing tracks. Her stunning voice came through as she performed tracks from her EP DDD and singles such as Tbc, Lost My Home and Not Always, as well as new music.
Who knows, could be you tonight
Slipped away, they hold on too tight
What did he say?
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t breathe
With a black power fist in the air, Lou captivated the room as she sang these lyrics to Tbc, a song that alludes to the finals words – “I can’t breathe” – of Eric Garner, a 43-year-old African American man who was a victim of police brutality in the United States.
For her final song, Lou announced she would be going back to her “roots,” referring to the fact that she started writing songs by playing guitar when she was 11 years old. Lou pulled out her acoustic guitar for a stripped down showcase of her artistry. Despite having to pause to retune the guitar and start the song over, Lou beautifully wrapped up her set with her emotional and raw vocals.
Although the audience started to thin out after Lou’s performance, most likely to enjoy Berlin’s club scene on a Thursday night, Yung Fume managed to maintain the energy of the room.
“Let’s get some energy in this building right now!” the young South London rapper shouted as he hyped up the remaining crowd and got their feet dancing to his fast-paced tracks.
Yung Fume did not hold back with his daring dance moves and even more daring lyrics with songs like Drippin and Watch Me Flex. His set featured songs from his Noughts & Crosses mixtape series.
Yung Fume also gave Berlin the honor be the first to hear tracks from his upcoming mixtape Noughts & Crosses 4. With a unique mix of UK and US rap styles, Yung Fume certainly turned Thursday night into an upbeat party for those who dared to stay at The Reed all night.
INTRODUCING’s October show was one that people will never forget as they enjoyed the privilege of an intimate night with three incredible rising stars. The next INTRODUCING concert is on November 21st. Attendance is free, but limited to those who put their name on the guest list.
