Paul Heaton at the Hammersmith Apollo Live Review by Ryan Beardsley
The words National Treasure seem to get bandied around pretty easily these days, an appearance on I’m A Celebrity plus not being a sexual predator and you’re in esteemed company in 2024. But tonight there is a genuine British legend on stage in West London, as Paul Heaton wheels out the hit parade to a sold out Hammersmith Apollo.
Switching seamlessly between Housemartins’ classics, Beautiful South megahits and gems from his most recent record The Mighty Several, which with very little promotion that I can recall went straight in at no2, highlights the staying power of the man and the loyalty of his fans.
There can have been few better at crafting a perfect romantic pop song, encapsulated by a Song For Whoever, the best songwriters write stories, and Heaton delivers in spades and belts out this one like it was only written yesterday.
He has sung with a number of talented female vocalists over the years and in 2024 it’s the turn of former Glasgow busker Rianne Downey who makes a good foil for Heaton and adds a sparky energy to a mature lineup.
It would be easy for her to be overshadowed but Downey more than holds her own in particular during no1 hit A Little Time, oozing an easy chemistry and showing off a charisma beyond her years.
In a tender moment, the Cheshire born crooner dedicates I’ll Sail This Ship Alone to his wife and kids, then casually belts out a note perfect rendition that has the audience on its feet in respect and admiration.
Heaton dishes out his trademark dry wit throughout the night, even introducing the band isn’t dull as he reveals their football team affiliation along the way, never losing the crowd for a moment, summing up Heaton the man and his connection with the working class that is arguably unmatched, it’s all authentic which is so rare especially today.
Happy Hour is a joy with people going wild in the aisles and replicating the famous video across the Apollo, Perfect 10 a guilty pleasure that is irresistible to sing along to and You Keep It All In is a winning finale, with a 62 year old Heaton still hitting that high falsetto impeccably,
It’s not over yet as Downey gets her chance to shine on lead vocals on Rotterdam before Heaton takes centre stage with Caravan Of Love to send the hardcore Housemartin fans and everyone else home happy.
Don’t miss your chance to see one of Britain’s best loved songwriters and all round good egg on this amazing tour before it’s too late. You can find tickets here.
Comments are closed.