Andy Bell: First night of a year-long world tour at York Barbican
JOYOUS as ever, an evening in Andy Bell’s company is life affirming.
Having just turned 61, he shows no sign of losing his effervescence (although there was less dancing than in the past). Unmissable in sequin trews, Bell soon dispensed his star shades for some more relatable (and presumably effective) specs, the better for seeing his adoring fans.
This was the first night of a year-long world tour, and York was treated to the live premiere of songs from his new Ten Crowns album. Launched on May 2, it is Bell’s best solo work to date, with stronger songwriting that builds on, rather than deviates from, his signature style.
Sharing the spotlight with Bell were Steele Fountain, from Nashville. Their showcase moments, Hailey Steele duetting with Bell on Heart’s A Liar, and giving Bell a rest by performing Breathe, were good but unremarkable.
The cover artwork for Andy Bell’s new album Ten Crowns, released the day after his York Barbican show
The best of Erasure and Bell’s solo work is full of fun and personality (as well as heartbreak, like all the best pop music), and that wasn’t yet coming across (it was only the first night after all).
Everyone was on their feet for the string of Erasure hits. Their power is undimmed by the passage of time, and Blue Savannah, Sometimes, Drama! and six others were rapturously received.
With Bell’s producer, Dave Audé, powering the synthesisers, these classics have rarely sounded better (Audé had already primed us with his DJ set of some of Bell’s favourite 80s’ floor fillers).
Heard for the first time, the new album tracks were more of a mixed bag. Some tunes carried Bell trademark irresistible pull, Dance For Mercy the pick, although Godspell sounded like an over-wordy album track. Their faithful take on Xanadu fitted into the set wonderfully and was an apt description of this show at its best.
Review by Paul Rhodes
The show last night was wonderful, Andy and Co were fabulous.
was at show 6th May in Glasgow concert hall. what a night. topped it all off by changing into lion rampart. xxAlice & Margaret ( lifelong fans xxx