Rating:

After a forgettable performance from rapper Dot Rotten, a lone figure took to the stage. This figure then proceeded to introduce himself as DJ Dummy from Brooklyn, New York. After the initial pleasantries, Dummy reassured the crowd that tonight's headline act, J Cole, was definitely not going to be dropped by Jay-Z's very own record label Roc Nation. After this remark he announced “this means the Roc is in the building” before commencing a thrilling DJ set drawing predominantly from the back catalogue of Kanye West and Jay-Z.

As DJ Dummy's set came to a close, a projection of J Cole's name appeared onto the backdrop of the stage signalling that he would be taking to the stage very shortly. After this warning J Cole made his much anticipated entrance, opening the set with his Kanye West collaboration, Looking For Trouble.

The set included Cole's guest verse from Beyoncé's Party, a verse that was followed up by a sing along to the track's catchy chorus. Along with his various guest verses and collaborations J Cole kept up the variety by performing a range of tracks from his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story, among earlier tracks from his various mix tapes.

Around halfway through the set J Cole paused for an interlude, during which his 3 piece band showcased their talents both vocally and instrumentally. Despite their undeniable talent it has to be noted that it wasn't a full live band as it only consisted of the aforementioned DJ Dummy along with 2 keyboard players, which at times made for an unconvincing and artificial-sounding backing track.

J Cole certainly has a strong arsenal of hits to choose from but unfortunately his live set fell disappointingly short of the mark.