LIVE REVIEW: The Shires @ Union Chapel

Currently touring the UK in support of their latest record ‘Undone Volume 1‘ British record-breaking country music duo The Shires (Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes) brought their intimate showcase to the stunning Union Chapel venue in London for a sold-out spectacular on Friday, May 31st.

The brilliant stripped-back tour sees The Shires returning to their roots with them performing acoustically on stage, just the two of them with an acoustic guitar and a keyboard to accompany their smooth voices, allowing their vocal harmonies and musicianship to shine like never before.

They delivered a breathtaking night of live music within the inspiring space of the Union Chapel, rattling through their biggest hits such as ‘Nashville Grey Skies’, ‘My Universe’, ‘Friday Night’, Daddy’s Little Girl’, and ‘State Lines’ among many, many more peppered in with some fan favourites such as ‘Sleepwalk’, and a heartening rendition of ‘Islands In The Stream’.

The ‘Two Of Us’ tour is a celebration of everything The Shires have to offer, and Crissie’s honey-toned vocals take centre stage throughout, whilst Ben’s immaculate songwriting is given a spotlight to shine. They were born to perform in these kinds of spaces and they did not disappoint in London.

The sold-out crowd were in full voice throughout the night, and on their feet singing along to every word. A standing ovation as the evening drew to a close ensured a three-song encore which included the always majorly fun highlight of ‘A Thousand Hallelujahs’.

One of the two touring support acts Alyssa Bonagura also joined The Shires on stage part way through creating a magical moment, whilst opening act Jeff Cohen delivered a fantastic opening set prior to the main event.

Were you at the gig on May 31st? Let us know your thoughts across social media and in the comments below!