analysis

Not being an avid follower of pop culture or pop music, I freely admit to feeling a little uncomfortable at the thought of attending an Olly Murs gig. But not because I believe his music is beneath me or that it offends my tastes. Far from it.

Music is surely one of the most subjective pleasures known to man.

And I’m sure I will have sung along at some point to one of Olly Murs’ many catchy tunes while driving or in a bar.

In any case, having watched the man himself on various occasions in interviews, I knew that his charisma and natural showmanship would likely get the crowd hyped up and dancing along in no time.

Quicker than I expected, I was sucked in to the bubbly feel-good aura emanating from the stage as hits such as You Don’t Know Love, Stevie Knows and Wrapped Up whipped up a carnival atmosphere among the crowd.

His set was complimented fantastically by the supporting act Louisa Johnson who I’m sure could attract a sizeable audience without her esteemed headliner.

As the concert came to an end, and with this being the last of this year’s Slessor Gardens gigs, there was a feeling of satisfaction among the organisers of a job well done – and rightly so.

All three shows – the two previous ones being UB40 and Little Mix – can only be regarded as huge successes.

The Liz Hobbs Group told me they will strive to put on four shows next year and what a fantastic thing that would be to have so many big-name acts descend on our small city.

It’s likely word will get around among performers about one of the UK’s newest and best outdoor live music venues, and with that, yet more exciting acts will follow.