On July 31st, Urban Spree in Berlin was a boiling pot of musical fervor as Royel Otis took to the stage for their much-anticipated release gig, organized by Rough Trade. It was a night that will be etched in the memories of everyone fortunate enough to secure a ticket to this sold-out event.
Urban Spree, known for its intimate setting and raw ambiance, proved to be the perfect venue for Royel Otis' high-energy performance. The small space was packed with fans, creating a charged atmosphere that added to the night's intensity. The heat was palpable, with sweat dripping from the walls as the crowd danced and sang along to every beat. If this wasn’t the sweatiest, hottest show in recent memory, it's hard to imagine what would be.
The line outside Urban Spree stretched far down the block, a testament to Royel Otis' growing popularity and the anticipation surrounding this special release show. Fans eagerly waited to squeeze into the packed venue.
This gig marked Royel Otis' first-ever show in Berlin, making the night even more significant. Typically accustomed to playing much larger venues, the band embraced the intimacy of Urban Spree with enthusiasm. This gig was a rare opportunity for fans to experience the band's music up close and personal. The good news for those who missed out: Royel Otis will return to Berlin in October, and due to the overwhelming demand, their next show has already been moved to a bigger venue, promising an even grander spectacle.
The challenging lighting conditions, a moody palette of blues and shadows, created an evocative, almost cinematic backdrop for the performance. While the low light and monochromatic scheme posed a challenge for photographers, it also provided a unique canvas that required creativity and a keen eye to capture the essence of the night.
Royel Otis delivered a performance that was as dynamic as it was engaging. Their setlist featured tracks from their latest release, each song met with roaring approval from the audience. The band’s synergy was evident, with each member contributing to a sound that was both polished and powerfully raw.
Highlights of the night included their hit single "Heading For The Door" which had the entire venue singing along in unison, and the emotionally charged "Adored", which showcased the band's ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with infectious melodies. As well as their covers of "Linger" and "Murder On The Dancefloor".
Despite the heat, the night was a resounding success. Royel Otis managed to turn Urban Spree into a pulsating hub of music and emotion, leaving an indelible mark on all who were present.
Their official release gig at Urban Spree will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout events of the year, a night where music, emotion, and atmosphere converged in the most unforgettable way.
And because the whole set was covered in blue lights, I played around with colors a bit:
All photos © Chux On Tour Photography.