As one of the most eagerly received yet enigmatic bands to appear in 2013 it is not surprising that Jungle decided to host the launch party of their debut album at a secret location.
On Monday 14th July I, along with a select group of other lucky ticket holders, made my way to the top of a multi-story car park in Peckham.
Six stories up and with panoramic views of the city, Frank’s Café made for a suitably urban setting. With London’s greatest landmarks forming an epic backdrop it may at first have seemed like Jungle would have a lot to compete with. However from the moment that they stepped on stage it became clear that their performance was to outshine the scenery by far.
Seeing as it was a string of punchy viral videos that first made Jungle famous one might worry about their capacity to deliver live. However the sheer energy of the groups’ presence was infectious and from the flawlessly cool dancing of the singers to the manic multitasking of the drummer they had the whole crowd moving within seconds.
The intimacy of the event made for a collective sense of privilege amongst everyone there. Being treated to the debut performance of one the year’s most anticipated albums felt huge.
The new tracks on the record continue to deliver that fresh tribal funk sound that sets funkster soul band Jungle apart and gives them such global appeal. Less than a year ago they were XL Recordings’ most mysterious act and now with the release of their debut album and a host of internationally sold out shows Jungle are proving to be massive.
words Freddi Miller
