REVIEW: The Wailers at O2 Ritz

How does Bob Marley like his doughnuts? Wi’jam in! The Wailers have been icons of the reggae genre for 61 years. Even after Bob Marley’s passing, they have continued to play for fans across the world. Their current tour celebrates 40 years of their album with Marley, ‘Legend.’  

Arriving at the O2 Ritz it was not surprising to find an array of generations in the crowd. From baby boomers to millennials to gen Z, all eagerly waiting for The Wailers to begin. Stepping out on stage 15 minutes late (fashionably late of course in The Wailers’ case), the first few groovy notes from ‘Lively Up Yourself’ played and instantly the room lit up (perhaps in more ways than one). The old sprung dance floor of the venue gently bounced as the crowd got their groove on. All 1,500 people at the sold-out gig sung every word at the top of their lungs. The room felt completely wholesome and uplifting. It felt as though suddenly everyone in the room was your best friend. A smooth transition into ‘Is This Love’ only made the crowd even louder.  

The resemblance of Mitchell Brunings’ vocals to Bob Marley’s was astonishing, it was as if Marley was in the room with us. Whilst Brunings did most of the vocals, Wendel ‘Junior Jazz’ Ferraro also sang several of their hits and assisted in backing vocals at any opportunity. Female vocals from Tamara Barnes and Tamekia James added nothing but perfection to the already flawless ensemble.  

A personal favourite on the setlist was ‘I Shot The Sheriff.’ An already exceptional song somehow sounded even more extraordinary live. All four vocalists harmonised magnificently to produce a masterpiece. It is no wonder that the group’s new album ‘Evolution’ is nominated for a Grammy in the ‘Best Reggae Album’ category.  

After playing cool new tunes from the Grammy-nominated album, they continued with their iconic, classic music. 

A notably special moment of the night was the performance of ‘Redemption Song.’ The tune which gained Brunings his fame on ‘The Voice Of Holland.’ It first began with only Brunings and bassist Owen ‘Dreadie’ Reid on stage (who gained his nickname from The Wailers original leader of the group Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett); the room was flooded with people’s phone flashlights. As the rest of the group returned to stage to finish the iconic song in one big heartwarming performance. A truly magical moment in the set. 

Finally, the vibes were brought back up one last time for their final song ‘Could You Be Loved,’ Everyone in the room including the band were singing and dancing their hearts out. Reggae skanking until the last notes had been played. Before the show started, it felt as though Marley’s presence may be an obvious missing piece to the night; but the close bond each member has to one another and the warm welcome they give their crowds, Marley would have been proud of what has been made in his honour. The band took a final bow arm in arm with each other and left the stage with one final message: Peace, Love and Unity. Something I feel everyone should live by. 

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