A short introduction by Beverley Knights instrumentalists (Paul Reid - guitar, Paul Bruce - bass, Carlos Hercules - drums, Ashley KIngsley - keys) and backing vocalists (Mary Pearce, Bryan Chambers and Billie Godfrey) on a darkened stage already had the audience cheering to an extent that in my experience is rare. Knight appeared a minute later and the Lyric’s roof was seriously tested by an even louder welcome. Most artists, understandably, take a couple of songs to warm up and then let fly. Not so with Knight… A few notes in and the whole audience got up from their seats and stayed there for the first three songs. It was extraordinary to hear and see. Knight moved around the stage like a prowling tiger, flinging out stinging vocals, kicking dust and interacting with her musicians. Now I’ve seen hundreds of live performances in my time but I have never seen the like of this before from a female singer/songwriter. I was reminded of the Tina Turner, both in looks and performing style - indeed Knight is without doubt Britain’s Tina Turner!

Towards the end of the third song, Knight disappeared into the wings while her backing vocalists filled space until she returned in a different, flowing silky dress to perform alone. She spoke to the audience about her joy of returning to Manchester and performed a moving tribute (’Beautiful Night’) to her friend (seated in the theatre) who had won her battle with breast cancer. She then dedicated the next solo song to her Manchester audience who by this time were back in their seats, soaking up the emotion. The songs were from her new album
and were good enough for me to make a mental note to buy it on my way out.

Then her backing singers returned and the audience was back on its feet with a fabulous rendition of the new album’s title track ‘100%.’ More costume changes, a dip into her extensive six-album back-catalogue, more new songs, and two hours later, we were all breathless with the vitality and awesome power of the performance. One word best sums this show up: Inspirational. Knight’s songs (including older tracks) seem to find new life in the live arena, even songs that I previously thought were so-so. Knight is also the most expressive of artists able to rock the guts out of a song one moment, and move one with intense emotion the next.

Credit must also go to her players who backed her to the hilt, and at times I could see her guitarists and backing vocalists looking at her in open admiration. This was live entertainment perfection and a show that I would have to list as one of the best I have ever seen. When I walked out and over to the merch stand to buy the album (all were personally signed by Beverley), unsurprisingly there was not one left, and I wouldn’t be surprised if punters had bought a second signed copy which will remain sealed as a souvenir of this wondrous show. For more images go the Shakenstir gallery.