T
hen On Saturday 2nd March a filled auditorium at the York Barbican greeted Glaswegian Amy MacDonald, who was playing in this city for the first time in six years. I held my breath with anticipation as the figures appeared from the blackness, ready to cheer when she was revealed in bright lights on stage. However, the first sight they actually got were some slightly older men all in checked shirts, skinny jeans and waistcoats… nope, not lumberjacks, just her support band. Must be a statement. Anyway, after a few slightly perplexing moments of my life, MacDonald appeared with her guitar and her unmistakable vocals, and the crowd loved it.
A true presence on the stage, Amy delivered first class performances of singles from her previous three albums. Her vocals were flawless throughout the whole of the set, enhanced by her rhythmic guitar playing clearly folk influenced.
Favourite performances included ‘Mr Rock and Roll’, ‘This is the Life’ and ‘Run’. These have been some of her most famous hits, and her live versions of them were not disappointing. A further small acoustic set was performed, including ‘Love Love’, displaying Amy’s seemingly underrated vocal ability and talent. Two notable performances were covers: a sprightly version of Jackie Wilson’s ‘Higher and Higher’ and an excellent, stripped back version of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Dancing in the Dark’. It was brilliant.
there was dancing. Lots of dancing. From two audience members in particular. This was a highlight of the evening, even for Amy herself, who showed her appreciation for these hard-core fans. The audience was unbelievably diverse, from the five year old who was sitting behind us to 15 year old girls who idolised the artist. This range created a truly electric atmosphere under the brightly coloured lights.
Her talent was well represented throughout her performance, and even got me on my feet. Still not sure about the whole checked shirt thing though…
KATIE MOLLOY