ZUZU with support from Tilly Louise and Munkey Junkey at O2 Academy, Liverpool 05.12.21.

Zuzu, who is best known for her indie pop music, lit up the stage in her home city of Liverpool on the 5th December 2021. Zuzu is a self-professed lover of Liverpool who celebrates her Scouse roots through her distinctive voice, ensuring she still maintains her Liverpudlian accent while singing. Zuzu had support from both Munkey Junkey and Tilly Louise who were new acts for me so I was looking forward to seeing how they performed and interacted with the energetic crowd.

Munkey Junkey_Credit: Elodie Hadfield

First up was Munkey Junkey, whose performance was different to my expectations, however, I truly enjoyed it. Munkey Junkey is a hip hop artist, who has a hint of electro-pop to his sound all thanks to the use of a keyboard in his performances. Munkey Junkey’s set completely surprised me as I was expecting a range of super energetic songs with lots of movement on the stage however, it was a mix of more mellow songs and then more lively tracks as I had expected prior to attending the show. His work is definitely worth a listen, and I look forward to seeing him return to Liverpool.

Tilly Louise_Credit: Elodie Hadfield

Second up was Tilly Louise, who I must say was dressed in the most amazing sparkly blazer set which looked fantastic under the lights. I thoroughly enjoyed her set which was full of alternative, indie pop songs. Her set and sound reminded me of Paramore, especially the song “Laughing”. She interacted with the crowd well, getting them singing along, and I feel this was helped was by the upbeat nature of Tilly Louise’s music.

ZUZU_Credit:Elodie Hadfield

The main act ZUZU then took the stage last. The crowd was full of energy surging as close as they could towards the barrier to get the best view. As this was only my second gig in the photo pit the experience still feels so surreal. ZUZU kicked off her set with the first song off her new album “Queensway Tunnel” – “Timing”, the crowd singing along loudly, happy ZUZU had finally taken the stage. The third song ZUZU played was my personal favourite “Lie to Myself”; I was already familiar with the song before going to the concert and I was signing away to myself while photographing.

ZUZU_Credit:Elodie Hadfield

As the set progressed, it was evident how much performing back in her hometown of Liverpool meant to ZUZU. At one point in the evening, she became overwhelmed with emotion and stumbled over a couple of words, however, the way in which the crowd carried her through the rest of the song was such a beautiful moment to be a part of, truly highlighting the way in which ZUZU’s fans support and care for her! She ended the show with her title song from her new album “Queensway Tunnel” and by the end of the night the crowd was belting out the songs alongside her. Overall, the show was fantastic and I’m looking forward to listening to ZUZU’s new album on repeat. 

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