ShareJeff Lynne’s ELO performing their Alone In The Universe Tour at The Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Thursday 7th April 2016
Images and Review by Kevin Cooper
Jeff Lynne, the bespectacled shaggy haired, bearded frontman of The Electric Light Orchestra is the epitome of cool who treated this packed Nottingham Motorpoint Arena to a wondrous blend of pop rock with spine tingling classical undertones.
With his new incarnation of one of rock’s greatest bands, which aside from the rhythm section included a string trio, which came in handy for those signature, elaborate orchestrations which Sweet Talkin’ Woman just wouldn’t be the same without.
From his latest album, Alone In The Universe there was When I Was A Boy, Ain’t It A Drag and When The Night Comes all of which were really well received, showing that his song writing quality is still there; the melodies as perfect as ever.
Opening with Tightrope and Do Ya; the fancy visuals and light show were instantly spell binding. Evil Woman, Showdown and All Over The World drove the audience into a euphoric stupor, whilst Rockaria! got them singing. Telephone Lines got them swinging and Livin’ Thing and Turn To Stone got them bouncing.
The dreamy Steppin’ Out from the milestone Out Of The Blue album was followed by the great, almost disco-esque Shine A Little Love, with its swirling strings, synths and hand claps. Wild West Hero showcased the vocal talents of the assembled band, with a fantastic three part harmony, whilst the whole place vibrated with the stamping of feet throughout Don’t Bring Me Down.
But everyone knew what this epic show was building up to and when those unmistakable piano chords finally arrived, the place erupted. Mr Blue Sky brought everyone to their feet; every single face beaming with a smile but it was Roll Over Beethoven that ended the night on an almighty high, with a little six stringed wizardry delighting this already elated arena.
There’s a reason ELO boasts over 50 million record sales, and it was there for all of Nottingham to see. He might be pushing 70, but he can still hold a crowd like no other. Coupled with that he is also a really nice guy who loves music and making music; so unassuming you could forget that he is undoubtedly one of the great rock and rollers of all time. A living legend who gave us electrifying rock at its very best.
