Review
Em & Ess at Fleet Street, Newcastle
This is not just an acoustic covers gig...
On a dark, winter evening that marked the end of February, we found ourselves once again drawn to the cosy, welcoming embrace of Fleet Street in Newcastle.
Their impressive range was on full display, as they seamlessly shifted from the infectious energy of Fleetwood Mac to the tender, emotive sounds of Noah Kahan. But what truly stood out was the undeniable chemistry between Sam and Emily. Their harmonies were simply stunning—each note felt perfectly placed, and their voices blended in a way that felt both effortless and deeply emotional. It was clear from the outset that their partnership was something truly special, and their unique interpretations of well-known songs set the perfect tone for the evening. As the crowd relaxed into the performance, the intimate setting of Fleet Street allowed the music to resonate deeply, filling the space with warmth and connection.
We were treated to an impressive array of covers, spanning everything from contemporary hits like Alice Deejay’s Better Off Alone to timeless anthems such as Aerosmith’s I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing. Each song was delivered with such authenticity and passion, it felt as though the duo were sharing a personal connection with the audience, making the experience feel even more intimate.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Fleet street has become a go-to spot for an unforgettable night out, and this evening was no exception. This time, we were there to enjoy the captivating harmonies of the newly formed duo, Em & Ess, featuring the talents of Sam Thomas and Emily Davidson.
We were entertained with three 45-minute sets from Em & Ess, beginning with an upbeat, feel-good rendition of Paolo Nutini’s Pencil Full of Lead. Right from the start, the energy in the room was high, setting the perfect tone for what was to come. Each set felt like a journey, with Em & Ess effortlessly navigating between vibrant, uplifting tracks and soulful ballads that had the crowd swaying along in unison. Their covers, spanning a diverse range of genres and styles, showcased not only their musical versatility but also their ability to breathe new life into every song they touched.
More: Watch the vlog! Come with us to Em & Ess acoustic duo round 2!
The chemistry between the pair was undeniable, extending beyond the songs they played. Between sets, Sam and Emily kept the crowd engaged with their lighthearted quips and playful banter, effortlessly drawing everyone into their welcoming dynamic. Their conversations felt natural and spontaneous, with the audience laughing along at cheeky comments that kept the mood light and fun.
As the evening wore on, it became increasingly clear that Fleet Street had once again played host to something truly memorable. The night was a perfect blend of great music, an inviting venue, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere—an experience where the music, the venue, and the crowd came together to create something unique. By the time Em & Ess wrapped up their final set, the crowd was left spellbound, eager for more of the duo’s infectious energy and flawless harmonies. It was one of those rare nights where you don’t just leave with a smile on your face but with the lingering feeling that you’ve witnessed something truly special in the local music scene.
