Natalie Duncan at the Tabernacle

The dim lights and church pews that line the Tabernacle stage room make the perfect atmosphere for Natalie Duncan’s intimate set. At the young age of 23, Duncan has the voice and charisma of some of the oldest and greatest soul artists. She may have only released her debut album Devil In Me in July but the vibrant audience at her concert prove she’s already seduced a dedicated following.

Duncan begins her set with title track Devil In Me, a dark and woeful song about destructive relationships. She captures the crowd with her deep voice and personal lyrics. Debut single Sky is Falling is a favourite; tinkling pianos lead into heavy bass, mesmerising the audience. Though her stage presence is fierce, it’s clear that Natalie Duncan is humble, shyly thanking the audience after every song.

Songbird is an uplifting and melodic tune, helped along by her backing band, the tinkle of the xylophone gives the song a whimsical air. Old Rock sets Natalie apart as a storyteller. Telling the tale of an old man who frequented a pub she used to work in, she captures a dark and foretelling image of a desolate future. Duncan’s lyrics are littered with heart-felt epiphanies; she truly does put her heart and soul into the music and that passion comes across in her voice and performance. While singing she has an awe-inspiring strength with her sultry vocals, but behind her lyrics sits a very humble artist, which gives the evening a charming personal vibe.

Tackling Grace and Over You alone, Duncan’s presence and piano playing fill the room. The audience are clearly head over heels with the songstress, you could hear a pin drop under her vocals. Natalie ends her set with the slightly more upbeat Became So Sweet. A deliciously heavy track that leaves her with two standing ovations from the crowd who can’t seem to let her go, clapping and chanting Natalie until the house lights have to be turned on to remind them to go home.

Duncan delivers a mesmerising set of beautifully crafted songs, captivating vocals and such a passion that already she is running with the greats. Her music is perfect for a dim and cosy club with her sultry lyrics and bluesy beats that will no doubt whisk you away into the heartfelt tales her songs tell.

Caitlin Middleton
Photos: Krisztian Pinter

For further information and future events visit Natalie Duncan’s website here.

Watch the video for Devil In Me here: