What’s happened to good pop/rock? The days of energetic rock chicks with their individualism has been replaced by solo artists who are more concerned with the latest gossip, watching mind numbingly boring program such as The Only Way is Essex and advertise frozen chicken for supermarkets on TV. Not great role models for girls if you ask me. On Thursday, October 6th, 2011 I witnessed a live gig with a lady who is set to change this forever. Christina Novelli is a strong woman who is rearing to go and take the music industry by storm, and bring back what’s important about music to all girls.

A concert in a massive stadium, with a dazzling light display, fireworks, dancers, support acts and blinding sets is just an overwhelming experience for your senses. However, this doesn’t always appeal, with the starkness and raw elements of performances that we crave that make that particular one you’re attending unique. The magic that happens in a hot, steamy basement in a bar, crammed with about 100 of fans is just unreal. Christina Novelli did not just deliver this perfect ideal, but turned a darkened basement of the Candy Bar in Soho into a cavern that was full to the brim with musical pleasure.


With a small raised stage, an acoustic guitar, a cajon and a singer with such a powerful voice that it shook me to my core, it was destined to be an inspiring evening. Christina weaved a plethora of her own material with a spattering of covers, which could be deemed a risky decision, but worked so well. Not only did Christina cover the tracks well, she made them her own, bringing her attitude/pop/seductive spin on them. Goo Goo Dolls’ ‘Iris’, Damien Rice’s ‘Cannonball’ and Bruno Mars’ ‘Just the way you are’ were performed on stage, and I know what you’re all thinking, you need to have something epic to come close to singing these anthemic tracks to justice, because I was thinking this too. Christina immersed herself in these tracks, picked out the most intricate parts and delivered them as if they were her own. The crowd sang along, holding onto every moment and totally riding the wave with Christina. Who can resist a sing along, especially after a couple of beers, eh? Miss Novelli definitely understands and connects with her audience, serving exactly what they’re thirsty for.

The acoustics in the low basement bounced off the walls, adding another dimension to the whole performance. Her energy was infectious and resounding around the sweaty box, a constant wave washing over the crowd, ensuring that they stay with her the whole evening. Pop/Rock British anthems were pouring from the stage, filling that niche that has been missing for such a long time in the British music scene in recent years. It’s about time that we have a strong, passionate lady with a compelling look and a groundbreaking voice to dominate the airwaves.


When the gig was coming to the close, Christina had one more ace up her sleeve. She was accompanied by half of duo RednPink, the Red half, with an impromptu jam. This track was laced with simple acoustic guitar, accompanied by minimal percussion, Christina’s harmonious tones and Red’s superb rapping skills. With the lyrics improvised on the spot, the duet was mind blowing, and Red is definitely one of the best British female rappers I think I’ve ever heard. The crowd went mental and lapped up every single morsel of the five minute melodic feast.

In the next couple of months, if you get a second to listen to Christina Novelli, you have to take advantage of it and treat your ears to the next generation of ‘girl power’.