BC Camplight finally made it to Crookes Social Club at the end of April, a month after his
original Sheffield date was postponed after the singer contracted COVID-19. And better yet,
he’s here with a full band for the last time on his current UK tour.
Originally from New Jersey, BC Camplight – real name Brian Christinzio – made the decision
to relocate to Manchester in 2012. It was from our neighbouring transpennine city that he
recorded his so-called ‘Manchester Trilogy’, which forms the bedrock of tonight’s setlist.
Although his most recent three albums are the ones which brought him mainstream
attention, BC Camplight’s recording career actually began back in 2005. With a near-20 year
career in the music biz under his belt already, it perhaps explains his natural showmanship
and ease at being on stage.
He forms a natural connection with the crowd almost immediately and chats intermittently
between songs, discussing everything from his 2015 deportation from the UK to a recent
break-up with a long-term girlfriend. Much like his recorded output, he combats a tragedy like
this with comedy. You only need to take a glance at the song titles on show tonight to get an
idea of what BC Camplight is all about: ‘I Only Drink When I’m Drunk’, ‘I Want to Be in the
Mafia’, ‘You Should’ve Gone to School.’ Sharp, sardonic, sarcastic songs that jump from
genre to genre, encompassing blues, indie rock and synth pop.
From the depression-confronting ‘I’m Alright in the World’ to the ode-to-Manchester ‘I’m in a
Weird Place’, BC Camplight confronts heavy lyrical content in the only way he knows: with
comedy. The songs are sharp, funny and cutting; the arrangements and musicianship
perfect; the crowd fully engaged all night. He promises there will be no encore tonight and
sticks to his word.
Closing with the riotous ‘I’m Desperate’, and serving up no encore as promised, it’s the
perfect end from a singer who finally appears to be alright in the world.
