Review: Newton Faulkner with support from NATi. and Marie Naffah at O2 Academy 3 Birmingham
The O2 Institute 3 in Digbeth is a relatively compact venue, which helped create an intimate vibe on October 16. With doors at 7pm, the room filled steadily and by show-time there was a good buzz in the air — people chatting, settling in, and anticipating a night of acoustic/folk-pop with personality.
Marie opened the evening with a gentle but confident set. Her voice carried well, and the songs leaned toward soul-folk with lyrical introspection. The audience welcomed her warmly though the room was still settling in. She played with a calm presence, allowing her songs to breathe, and it was a solid start to the night.
Following Marie, NATi. brought a shift in energy. With her alt-pop-rock guitar style, a more direct stage presence and witty patter, she engaged the audience more overtly – claps, sing-along moments, good humour. One highlight was her cover of You Oughta Know (originally by Alanis Morisette) — it brought a slightly edgier vibe before the main act. Together, the two supports set up the headliner nicely: Marie offering a reflective introduction, NATi. raising the energy.
Coming on stage, Newton delivered what fans expect: masterful guitar work, warm vocals, and genuine engagement with the crowd. He drew from his recent album Octopus along with older favourites. The guitar work was impressive: percussive, intricate, and expressive. Newton’s ability to build layers with a single guitar is still a hallmark and shines live.There were several moments of audience interaction — call-and-response, foot-stomping, clapping — which helped the energy build. Newer tracks from Octopus added freshness to the set — the audience responded well, even if they weren’t as familiar with them. As ever his set started more laid-back, gradually building in intensity and closing on a high note without feeling forced.
By midway through Newton’s set, the room was fully engaged. Although was slightly disrupted by a disagreement in the audience leading to a couple of people being removed. The smaller venue meant you could almost feel the strings vibrating. This gig was a strong show from Newton Faulkner and the tour supports. In a venue with character and a receptive audience, it delivered both familiarity and new material, high technical musicianship, and a warm communal atmosphere.
If you were a fan of Newton’s older work, you’ll have left satisfied. If you were hearing him live for the first time, it's a compelling introduction. The support acts also added real value — Marie’s soulful calm and NATi.’s vibrant energy provided a well-balanced evening.
Photos and write-up - Andy Shaw
