Joseph Bell, Live @ Hope and Anchor Islington - 11/12/2024
By Kathryn Monk Winstanley
There are gigs that come and go without leaving a trace, and then there are the ones that feel like a living room dance party, sending you out into the night giddy and inspired. Joseph Bell’s show at the Hope and Anchor in Islington definitely falls into the latter category.
Joseph Bell is an alt-pop artist and Rare FM alumni, serving as Head of Music before being elected Treasurer in his final year at UCL. He was named BBC Introducing Artist of the Week for Shropshire in September 2024, and has performed at iconic London venues like Ronnie Scott’s and the Troubadour. Tonight was his first headline gig, and he certainly delivered.
Tucked beneath the pub, the basement venue slowly filled with a familiar buzz - the kind of excited chatter that bounces between old friends, new-comers, and fans alike. It was a setting that suited the night perfectly: low ceilings, bare stone walls, and a crowd eager for something genuine.
Pea Floom opened the night, her raw, emotive voice setting the tone. Her set felt like she was hosting a party on the stage and the audience were there to be a part of it, and her jazz-infused vocals flowed effortlessly through the music.
When Joseph Bell took to the stage, his art-pop sound settled perfectly into the warm room. His voice - expressive and disarmingly honest - wove stories of connection, while the band created a soundscape that was both inviting and exciting. Joseph alternated between solo moments and full-band sections which added a dynamic energy to the set, and each shift left the audience anticipating more.
There was a playful energy throughout - not just in how Joseph worked freely with the music, but in the way he interacted with the crowd. He joked, told stories, and even teased a new track, which, judging by the crowd’s reaction, already seems like it’s going to be a future favourite. Among the highlights was “Headstraight”,a personal favorite which energised the whole crowd, uplifted by rich harmonies and a seamless, tight-knit arrangement. The chemistry between the bandmates was palpable, each instrument was given its moment to shine without overpowering the others.
The audience was a beautiful mix: longtime friends, new fans, and even a few who looked pleasantly surprised to have wandered in. You could hear quiet whispers of pride exchanged between songs, and constant laughter from the crowd throughout the gig.
“Sweet Fantasy” floated through the swaying crowd, its offbeat guitar plucks reminiscent of a classic summer, indie tune; I was lost in the moment, dancing along with my neighbours. The song had a nostalgic energy, which I could see in Joseph’s performance. His expressions shifted with each verse - playful, reflective, energetic - like he was reliving the story behind the song in real time during the performance.
One of the best things about this gig was Joseph’s stage presence and ability to interact with the crowd. He drew us into his performance and gave the songs a life of their own for us to experience in that moment. It felt like Joseph didn’t just sing to us, but that he connected with us, creating a shared buzz that enveloped the room. That’s the secret of a true performer: the ability to blur the line between artist and audience, turning a gig into something unforgettable.
By the time the final song was played, the room hadn't lost its warmth. If anything, it had grown. Laughter and giddy chatter filled the air, and there was that lingering feeling that you’d just shared something genuine and exciting with a room full of strangers, all brought together by real, innovative music.
Joseph Bell is the kind of musician who doesn't just perform - he invites you in. Despite just discovering his music, I found that I really connected with his sound and lyrics. I can't recommend him enough. If you get the chance, go see him live - before the venues get bigger and the secret is out!