From the editor: Holly Herndon and Ne-Yo and goodbye

I’m not one to be maudlin or mawkish. Except when it comes to writing about the arts. The most interesting news to impart to you, I think, relates to the awesome shows I’ve seen recently.

Ne-Yo at the Brighton Centre was a bracing surprise. Less Vegas and spangle than some of his poppier peers, here we just had a great full band with highly prominent live drums attacking strong R’n’B hits with gusto. His voice was still and melodious, and a soft acoustic interlude impressed amidst his energetic song and dance act. His enthusiasm in sharing new music with the crowd created a tangible feeling of goodwill too.

Holly Herndon put on a stunning show in a totally different mode. Herndon is a visionary artist, beguilingly deconstructing electronic and pop music in complex compositions. Her Attenborough Centre gig utilised live vocals, but often distorted through electronic filters, complementing skittering, staccato music, and with highly effective and dramatic panning between left and right throughout. The visuals were superb, coming across like a live videogame, including innovative text interaction with the audience. We were told that Herndon is working on new music which is very different, and I can’t wait to hear what this true pioneer comes up with.

In other news, this is my final issue as editor of Latest: it’s been a real pleasure, and I’m thrilled that my dear friend, the inimitable Vicky Nangle will be taking the reins. I will be the new Senior Press Officer at Brighton Dome & Festival, a place you’ve heard me gush on about several times before (e.g. bit.ly/2wNsXZi & bit.ly/2xIl4nc). So there will be fewer words from me here from now on.

Joe Fuller