BZ in Sheffield 2008 - By Christine G
Boyzone were sizzling in Sheffield fronted by the beautiful and equistically voiced Ronan Keating. The lads hurtled headlong into their first song; the quirky and kooky “picture of you” with vigour and vibrance, closely followed by the infectiously chirpy “one kiss at a time”. Boyzone’s extensive back catalogue received rapturous applause from the audience leaving them wide-eyed and spellbound. Not only was Ronan’s musical body of work on display, but his physical body of work when he displayed his perfectly honed physique for the performance of the punchy and gutsy “when the going gets tough” (swoon).
Ronan’s vocals for the classic ballads sounded syrupy sweet as always and got even better as the show went on and just oozed sensuality, and his voice sounded even better for his maturity.
As with any Boyzone show there has to be medley, which consisted of a Jackson 5 theme; slick routines and plenty of glitz all served to entice the audience further into the Boyzone experience, as they happily sang along to the medley, and didn’t Ronan look oh so retro and cheeky in his blue bellbottoms and blue sequin top (go Ronan).
The dramatic lyrics of “I love the way that you love me” are pure theatre and Ronan’s voice is filled with such intensity and longing it leaves you feeling quite weak (Oh Ronan). Brilliant; it had to happen that Ronan would sing 2 of his classic solo songs; too many people, including myself would have been devastated if it hadn’t happened, so we were treated to the beautiful and innocent “when you say nothing at all” and the feel good “rollercoaster”. The introduction of Ronan’s classics, “when you say nothing at all” and “rollercoaster” brought the house down. “When you say nothing at all” was performed with such sweetness and vulnerability it took your breath away, and the presence of the sophisticated and gentle ballet sequence, where Ronan picked up the beautifully dressed dancer was breathtaking and oh so romantic (ahh..). Later on in the show “rollercoaster” blew everyone away and as always Ronan sang it with energy and an infectious enthusiasm that is hallmark Ronan. Ronan even graciously allowed Keith Duffy a part in this song, but hey this anthem can only be Ronan’s.
Although, this was a pure nostalgia trip with the bulk of the songs being oldies (no harm in that) we were given a glimpse of musical moments ahead with a new track. The new song “cant stop thinking about you” is fresh and funky and liberally sprinkled with the Ronan vibe of “turn it on” and “do what we do” and Ronan’s vocals were warm and vibrant (it’s a hit!).
A nice touch for the fans was when Ronan and the lads invited us to all text in with the answer to a competition to go up on stage (I expect the mobile phone networks had never had it so good).
Ronan fashioned several outfits, casual jogging pants, a retro blue suit, sophisticated black suit and drainpipe black trousers; he looked simply sensational.
All too quickly we had reached the finale of the show, but Ronan and the lads were ready to give an outstanding final performance. The familiar intro of “no matter what” resonated around the Arena as the lads stepped on to a circular platform, which hoisted Ronan and the 4 over the audience. “No matter what” sounded subtle and heartfelt and as the lads were hoisted over the audience, people waved hoping to get a wave back from their favourite member.
Then came the haunting sound of the Irish Bodhran drum being played by James McNally, reaching a crescendo before the powerful lyrics of “different beat “ echoed around the Arena. “Different beat” was magical and inspired the audience to follow Ronan and the lads in the original Boyzone arm movements; it was awe inspiring and the lyrics of this song have a message of hope and peace in these troubled times. The final track “melting pot” was electric and is a poignant anthem for love and respect; love and respect is something which Boyzone have achieved with this show.
I cannot wait for Castle Howard, when I can get swept up in the moment all over again, with the enchanting Mr K.
