"You've really got to see them live," was the message coming through loud and clear about Nash. And shit, this wasn't simply PR hype - each and every word was true.
Here on the crowded stage in front of us is a unique "collective", as they like to refer to themselves. Skiffling drums, gliding cello, bass, acoustic guitar, MC and DJ 'Tha 4orce', his decks and frontman Russell Nash. It is the later that really sets this band apart from all those others that are supposedly tipped for great things in 2001.
This bearded, be-suited, munchkin-like figure has the kind of soulful, rasping voice that most of us can only dream of. Influences from some of the greatest vocalists of our time - Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers and Curtis Mayfield - shine through, but this is not a classic soul set-up.
Although soul has definitely set their foundations, Nash have managed to incorporate funk, acid-jazz, hip hop, breakbeat and trip hop into their set tonight. They have sprinkled a generous teaspoon of pop hundreds and thousands over the top too. But pop in its true, credible sense - Jay Kay look on and weep!
The lively mixed-up crowd seem to be digging it and that is never more apparent as when they launch into the catchy groove, '100 Million Ways', their next single. A lot of these folk have seen them before, there can be no doubt of that as they ooze and shuffle a long, cheering excitedly.
The harmonious backing singing during the Stax-sounding 'Break Away' sounds enchantingly choral and adds beauty and depth to this low-down and dirty, funk-driven song. Yet there is nothing pretentious about it or anything else they perform. This lot are having fun playing the music they love - and boy does it show. See Nash at a venue near you - and soon!
