REVIEW: Gary Barlow at Plymouth Pavilions

THERE’S a big smile on my face that’s refusing to budge and that’s because I happen to have been one of the extremely lucky ladies, and men, to see Take That’s Gary Barlow perform a rare show in the Westcountry.

Despite his busy schedule as a judge on the X Factor, the incredibly talented singer-songwriter has managed to squeeze in a small solo tour.

Having only ever seen Gary perform with his fellow band mates, I wasn’t sure what to expect and wondered how he could possibly recreate the amazing energy renowned with their live shows?

I also had slight reservations knowing that it was not just a seated show but there would be an interval.

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None of that mattered because as soon as the lights came up and a suave and immaculately dressed Gary came on stage, the audience went wild and were up on their feet and singing along to Greatest Day, the perfect song to begin an unforgettable night.

Then it was time for a trip down memory lane with one of Gary’s few well-known solo hits, Open Road, and then unforgettable Take That classics from A Million Love Songs to Everything Changes.

The star's mesmerising set even included a medley of swing songs, and a later piano-led love songs collection.

The last song of the first half, and a surprise highlight of the night for its sheer power when performed live, was Sing, written especially for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

After a short break, with Gary joking how he isn’t as young as he once was, it was time to step it up a notch with the nostalgia trip with the likes of Shine, Pray and ultimate crowd pleaser Back For Good.

For the encore, Gary returned wearing a sparkly black jacket for the perfect finale, Never Forget.

Despite the jibes Gary has endured over the years, this performance would silence any critic. He proved that what counts is vocals, along with an ability to write amazing songs that will always stand the test of time.

Admitting to loving bring back on stage, it wasn’t just the music that was also entertaining but also Gary’s charming and funny personality. And there were even some legendary Barlow dance moves thrown in for good measure too. Of course we will never forget!

Anita Merritt