Marti Pellow returned to the Plymouth Pavilions this week to close off his current tour in support of his new album MYSTERIOUS, we were there, read on to see how the evening unfolded....

Opening the evening's entertainment was Philippa Hanna who stood proudly on stage somewhat dwarfed by her large gospel white Gretsch guitar (this was the one that Gretsch kindly donated to her after her old one was damaged pretty much beyond repair after a flight a while back!) Once that connection with the audience was established through song and chit-chat, a bold statement of confidence and formidability in music is very evident.

In support of her new album SPEED OF LIGHT and off the back of her solo tour last month, this glitzy and gutsy heroine of the gospel scene performed a short but tight 30 minute set of songs that both inspire and enforce her ascent to popularity. Having already opened for many high profile acts like Lionel Richie, Leona Lewis and of course Wet Wet Wet among others, she was clearly enjoying this encore of performances for Marti Pellow.

With 10 years in the music business, supporting herself independently through multiple albums, Philippa shone as Paul Simon once said "like a national guitar" on a stage accompanied by her husband on beatbox. Her songs about self-esteem and positivity received a warm reaction from a settling audience. With sophisticated guitar playing and clear vocals, she delivered her message, a plug for her book, and left us all with a warm fuzzy feeling....

After a short intermission, it was time for the legendary Wet Wet Wet frontman to take to the stage and close the evening....

Legions of fans eagerly anticipated some new material, but understandably gave their greatest applause to the Wet Wet Wet back catalogue of songs he delivered. Always a showman and dressed to match, he crooned his way through a 90 minute set. The female fans dutifully danced and waved their hands through his hits.

With a pitch perfect voice, and clearly enjoying the 20th year of his ‘clean’ lifestyle Marti entertained with stories of growing up and his amazing musical journey. With Latin flavours, soulful interludes, and primed pop this 80’s pin-up delivered with style and assurance.

No one left the concert feeling short-changed by this medley of reinvented old hits and a flavour of the space Mr Pellow now comfortably inhabits. From the big stage lighting rig and large backing band, to the sparkly suit and swinging mic stand, It was a night of 5 star entertainment in a kind of Las Vegas meets Glasgow conundrum.

Review and Photographs by Mark Tipping Photography