Roisin takes the lead
Last updated 14:21, Friday, 29 August 2008
The first headlining act of Solfest, Roisin Murphy set the bar high with a theatrical set complete with out-there dance moves and five costume changes.
Murphy, formerly of Moloko, was keen to make her solo mark and captivated the audience with her own brand of heady electronic dance and stirring, soulful pop.
The majority of the picks came from Murphy’s newly-released second album, Overpowered, which she co-wrote and produced with the likes of Andy Cato of Groove Armada.
The crowd sampled the catchy and upbeat Let Me Know followed by the anthemic You Know Me Better – both encouraging tasters from the new release.
The energetic set saw some bold fashion statements as Murphy changed into a silver boiler suit, a little red riding hood and a futuristic white jacket teamed with a purple trilby. With a nod to 1950s elegance, Murphy donned a white fur jacket for another new track, Movie Star. Draping herself around the microphone, she looked every inch the stellar performer.
Appreciative of the festival’s flavour, Murphy told the crowd: “I’m so pleased to be here in the beautiful countryside, playing music and upsetting the neighbours.”
Becoming increasingly robotic in her movements towards the end of the set and looking lost to her music, Murphy writhed on the ground and threw off her shoes.
But the audience had expected a quirky routine.
Fan Sarah Blair, 25, from Silloth said: “She’s totally fantastic. It’s great the festival attracts this kind of talent.
“I’ve never seen anybody change their clothes so much – it’s unreal. Her singing voice is amazing and her backing vocalists are great.
“I’d see her again without a doubt.”
LINZI WATSON
