How do you solve a problem like Jonny Craig? Amidst allegations of MacBook scams along with blatant drug abuse and resulting band troubles, there was a certain sense of curiosity surrounding tonight’s show. Opening things up are two artists by the name of Ed Tullett and Dae Bryson, both an entertaining watch but with a lack of interest from the crowd, it’s clear that they’re here to see one person and one person only.
By the time Jonny Craig has taken to the stage, The Moon has sufficiently filled out. It was probably the most full I’ve ever seen it. The stage setup is sparse at best which makes for a somewhat awkward atmosphere. Unlike previous visits to the UK, the main draw for tonight’s show is Jonny Craig’s voice. And so be it, because in all honesty he genuinely has one of the best voices I’ve ever heard live. His solo project has more of an R&B vibe compared to his post hardcore roots in Emarosa and Dance Gavin Dance and while some of the beats are lacking in imagination and creativity, it’s clear that Jonny Craig cares a whole lot about what he is doing with this project.
The songs with just him and the guitar are the better areas of the set with a cover of Justin Timberlake’s ‘Cry Me a River’ being a big highlight along with the singalong to ‘I Still Feel Her’. It also genuinely does look as if he has kicked his drug habit, for now at least. Going into the future, I can only hope that Jonny Craig doesn’t lead himself down another path of destruction. The man has an absolutely immense talent and when on form as he is tonight, he is an absolute joy to watch.
CHRIS MARSHMAN