Andrew Cushin proved exactly why he looks set to become a big player in the UK's music scene after he put on an outstanding performance in front of a sold-out home crowd in Newcastle.
The highly-talented singer-songwriter took to the stage at the NX Newcastle on Friday, October 21, to bring an end to his latest UK tour.
He immediately had the loud 1,600+ in attendance feeling as though they were witnessing something special with his impressive range of tunes and thoughtful lyrics.
The 22-year-old showcased a stage presence and powerful set of vocals beyond his years with a strong performance that reiterated exactly why he has been signed to Libertines legend Pete Doherty 's Strap Originals label, and why industry icons such as Noel Gallagher have been keen to help him on his journey.
Indeed, the track that the Oasis rocker and Andrew teamed up on titled Where's My Family Gone was belted out by the adoring crowd after it made a belated appearance on his set list at the end of the night.
However, well before then, onlookers were in full voice thanks to fantastic displays and hearty performances by the Heaton chanter.
To start his set, the soon-to-be local hero had been treated to a warm welcome home from his month-long tour thanks to a top display by Wor Flags. The fan-funded Newcastle United group are often seen on Tyneside getting the city's football fans ready for action, while they have also provided fellow Magpies fan, Sam Fender, with the royal treatment.
Throughout the night the Geordie connection continued as chants of Toon Toon bellowed out from the audience at every given opportunity, but it was on stage where the real magic happened.
It was clear what the occasion meant to the rising performer who regularly had to take a step back during songs to take it all in, visibly muttering "f***ing hell" in amazement on a number of occasions.
Among his emphatic vocals throughout the night included faultless renditions of Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Memories and Catch Me If You Can.
Putting down the guitar for a moment and giving his talented bandmates a breather, Andrew truly shone with an incredibly raw and emotional performance of 4.5%. The crowd looked on in awe as the artist put his heart and soul into every word of the song which candidly told the story of his dad who struggled with alcohol.
Following the acoustic number, Andrew had to take a seat and wipe away a tear, such was the feeling behind the tune and the connection with the crowd.
The standout tune of the night, however, went to his new single titled You'll Be Free, which was so good he sang it twice! The second time, with his retro NUFC shirt on full show, came after fans had insisted on an encore.
All in all, it's clear to see the future is bright for Andrew whose backing from big names as well as a loyal following could set him up nicely to take the scene by storm in the very near future.
As a member of Wor Flags told The Mirror: "The night was a big statement concert."
Earlier in the night, Japanese indie band Sahaji excitedly got the occasion underway before the eccentric and enjoyable Lottery Winners whipped up the crowd's enthusiasm with an impressive interactive set.
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