How do you scare a man in his mid-70s from East London? Lock him in a room with hundreds of scouse women screaming for him.
Some people might think that David Essex is well past his prime, still going on tour into his 70s, but being on stage at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, it seemed as though he was still in his prime. Still sounding almost exactly the same as he did on his records and still able to fully captivate an audience. As someone who grew up, only knowing his biggest hits and learnt more of his back catalogue through his musical ‘All the Fun of the Fair’, it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
We were treated to a fabulous set from Tim Newman, as Essex’s support act and he definitely got the crowd warmed up and ready for the main event. He sang some of his own tracks, including a few new numbers and his heart-warming stories, especially those about his son, kept the audience rooting for him.
After a brief interval, Essex entered to continuous applause. It was clear the audience had missed him since his last tour, four years ago and he had also missed them. The set list seemed well thought about, making sure that all the hits were performed, and the audience was able to be up on their feet enjoying themselves, as much as Essex seemed to be enjoying being back on stage. There was something for everyone in the set list, whether you like more rock songs or ballads and even some musical theatre thrown in for good measure!
Anyone who is fed up with artists doing a farewell tour, then touring again a couple of years later, should definitely go and see David Essex on his tour, it will make you realise that some people are made to be on stage, no matter their age. It’s clear that Essex is one of those people and luckily for his fans, he seems to be showing no signs of slowing down any time soon. If you also want a blast of feel-good nostalgia, then make this the concert you see this year – you will not regret it.
Make sure to catch David on his UK tour and check if he is coming to a venue near you, on his website www.davidessex.com
Reviewer: Jenn McKean
Reviewed: 4th September 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★