Simply Red with special guest Mica Paris performing their Blue Eyed Soul Tour at The Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Wednesday 9th March 2022.



Images and Review by Kevin Cooper

The Simply Red bandwagon finally rolled into Nottingham on Wednesday night to deliver a greatest hits show that delighted the patient Motorpoint Arena crowd.

Supporting them was British soul singer Mica Paris, who has been releasing great music since the 80’s. With her strong and soulful voice she delighted with Like Dreamers Do and Where Is The Love whilst her lovely version of Labi Siffre’s (Something Inside) So Strong was dedicated to the people of Ukraine. Finishing with Carefree, Paris had left the crowd wanting more.

When Simply Red burst into life for the opening bars of 2004’s Home, it was the start of a twenty one track show that was crammed into two hours full of hits. So Not Over You and Never Never Love served to whet the crowds appetite before a cover of The Stylistics You Make Me Feel Brand New showcased front man Mick Hucknalls sublime vocals.

Early hit Holding Back The Years was magical with his soulful voice strong and loud leaving the crowd to marvel at the musicianship of the band. Once A New Flame started with its Latin feel there wasn’t many still sitting and Thrill Me was rocking, hot and funky with great saxophone solos from Ian Kirkham.

Stars received a very warm reception and served to remind what a great soul hit it is enhanced by a very tight band that was impressive throughout. They ended on a high note with Something Got Me Started and Fairground which saw Hucknall leave the stage followed by his band to rapturous applause.

Returning for a three song encore which included Money’s Too Tight (To Mention), (Ain’t That) A Lot Of Love and the gorgeous and lamentable If You Don’t Know Me By Now, Hucknall had been at his brilliant best, oozing class and talent from the off.