Review: Tony Hadley, Birmingham Symphony Hall
As the frontman of Spandau Ballet he was one of the most powerful voices to emerge from the 80s - but more than 30 years later Tony Hadley still has what it takes to put on a performance of pure gold.
His show at Birmingham's Symphony Hall last night packed a punch - not least because he had the backing of a full orchestra.
The fantastic Southbank Sinfonia provided a fresh twist on many arrangements which proved to be a real crowd pleaser.
The first half of the show was dedicated to some of Hadley's favourite songs, including David Bowie's Life on Mars, Somebody Told Me by The Killers and Queen's Somebody to Love.
But that was just the warm up. The second half, which he referred to as a 'singalong', featured Spandau songs and judging by the audience reaction this was what they had been waiting for.
As soon as the sharp-suited singer kicked off with To Cut A Long Story Short the crowd was on its feet - with many of them staying there 'till the end.
Hadley upped the tempo as he delved into a back catalogue of Spandau Ballet hits, taking the audience on a trip down memory lane.
Each track - from Highly Strung to Round and Round - was delivered with a powerful twist thanks to the amazing orchestral accompaniment.
The sound was fantastic and Musclebound, in particular, felt like it was made for the orchestra.
True and Through the Barricades had the crowd swaying along while rousing renditions of Chant No. 1 (I Don't Need This Pressure On), Lifeline and Fight For Ourselves went down a treat.
Hadley delivered a welcome encore of Gold before finishing with Frank Sinatra's My Way.
At 56 he may be more 'old' romantic than New Romantic, but this powerhouse performer has still got what it takes.
By Maria Cusine
