Annie
Live @ Koko, London, 06/16/05
Annie performed her debut London gig at this incredibly plush venue on one of the first stifling hot nights of the year. After a smattering of DJ appearances earlier in the year, Annie's first London live performance was well anticipated. Although, only billed as the support to St. Etienne, the venue was packed to the rafters by the time Annie hit the stage. Accompanied by a DJ who introduced her by playing a Blondie record, Annie was clad in a down to earth floaty white top and black jeans. This non-pretentious appearance acted as a subtle sign that Annie is destined the masses, and not just for the style and fashion press. In this sense, it's hard to understand how her debut album "Anniemal" has failed to crossover at present. In her performance we are treated to gems such as the perfect pop of "Chewing gum" and "Heartbeat", Pitchfork's favourite song of last year. The live airing of "Chewing gum" featured a cute exchange between Annie and her DJ, via use of a vocoder. Alongside the standout songs on "Anniemal", a couple of new songs are played including one featuring the repeated line "Will you marry me," accompanied by some cheeky finger pointing at the crowd. Ultimately, these songs are dance music with an added pop sensibility. Tonight the people wanted to dance, something which the absurdly busy nature of the venue did ill afford
- Nick Levine