First of many, onthebuzz’s first guest post by friend Sir David Nguyen who had the opportunity to see, crooner Maxwell perform live two weeks ago, his personal insight of the night’s affairs with wit and a sprinkle of London slang. Take it away me old china and much appreciated David Nguyen and kudos to robs1979. Have a butchers and let it be known.

I rarely attend concerts but Maxwell, came, saw and conquered on Saturday 31st October, delivering a suave and mind-blowing performance at the HMV Hammersmith Apollo in London.

To my amazement, a support act didn’t perform at the event, a common sight in live gigs but to use a culinary analogy, yours truly would rather skip a mezze (appetizer) and gorge on a hearty main as it’s been 11 years since the New Yorker last performed in good ol’ Blighty (Britain).

Silence momentarily beckoned until Maxwell hit the stage, alongside his fully-fledged jazz band in exquisite timing – not even a second late which is impressive given that I’m a staunch supporter of punctuality. The Brooklynite started the show with “Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder)” from his debut LP, “Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite”; the lasses (ladies) went absolutely barmy (crazy) while the fellas, under considerable duress to enhance the atmosphere was comforted by Maxwell when he uttered “they know what their getting after the show” directly at them. Gordon Bennett! (Surprise!)

Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder) – Live @ Apollo

Even without his trademark afro, Maxwell looked incredibly dapper in a three piece suit; the epitome of a perfect gentleman. Oozing with sex appeal he delivered most of the tracks from his latest album “BLACKsummers’ night” with amazing grace. One particular track, “Pretty Wings” had every woman in the audience spellbound in rhetoric reply to Maxwell’s semi-improvised lyrics. As he sang “will you forgive me… for being away so long” the already over-zealous female admirers screamed back “YES! YES! YES!” Buy this bloke a Pina Colada (cocktail)!

The thinking women’s crumpet (sexy person) also recited many of his early and most memorable songs including “Get to Know Ya” to which audience received with great enjoyment. Throughout the one hour and 30 minute show his voice went from silky soft to hypnotic rough, effortlessly demonstrating his range that I firmly believe gives him edge over his fellow contemporaries such as D’Angelo and Musiq Soulchild; delighted to be back and performing on stage, Maxwell gave one of the smoothest performances that I have seen. Bravo me old china (friend/mate)!

Pretty Wings - Live @ Apollo

Final thought??? The occasion was spectacular and extremely pleasurable; 45 quid (£45) well spent… Maxwell’s craftsmanship resonated with the crowd, providing him and his talented musical entourage with a euphoric ovation in addition to several pieces of lingerie. Steady on Guv’nor!

P.S: Maxwell is scheduled to perform in London at the Brixton Academy on Friday 13th November and let’s hope we don’t have to wait another 11 years to see the soul impresario perform on these shores!