Mika at the Roundhouse

The Camden Roundhouse is packed to the rafters with a surprisingly eclectic mix of excited fans eagerly awaiting the high-pitched and bouncy musician that is Mika. From middle-aged men testing out a bit of awkward dad-dancing to adoring teenage girls, Mika has gathered a strong following despite being off the radar for so long.

Mika’s first studio album, Life in Cartoon Motion, was released in 2007 and managed to secure him a number-one spot on the UK album charts and a Brit Award for best breakthrough act. If tonight is anything to go by, his new album, The Origin of Love, which focuses on a more simple pop format, looks set to go the same way.

Sticking to his old faithful tunes, Mika warms the crowd up with Grace Kelly and a confetti snowstorm. The track has such energy that it sets the audience up for the night and sees him springing across the stage with his trademark flamboyant vigour. Relax, Take It Easy is another easy winner that sees Mika don a glittering bowler hat. Its heavy poppy beats and synthesised vocals have even the dads in the audience wiggling their hips.

Tracks from his new album go down with only slightly less enthusiasm than his biggest hit singles. Make You Happy and Stardust are slow and soulful tracks that give the crowd a chance to catch their breath after the up-tempo madness. Only Love You When I’m Drunk and Celebrate are definite favourites from his new material, with Mika commanding the crowd into a dancing frenzy.

The real winner of the night has to be Love Today. Mika proves himself to be not only a decent artist of filthily poppy dance tracks but a showman as well. He directs the stage, his band and his audience with such effortless enthusiasm and flamboyant style that even the staunchest cynics in the audience have smiles on their faces. Big Girl (You Are Beautiful) is another crowd pleaser. Mika brings a choir onstage to help him with this number.

Though some of us may only remember him for Grace Kelly five years ago, Mika’s performance hails him as one of the most endearing pop performers of this generation. Despite the fact he seems to rely heavily on his old tracks, it only made the atmosphere of the night more colourful. For his showmanship, vibrant energy and happy music, Mika is definitely a must-see for both fans and lovers of pop alike. 

Caitlin Middleton

For further information future events visit Mika’s website here.

Watch Stardust live here: