John Newman at The Albert Hall, Manchester review

Image: John Newman

Since his death in 2009, Michael Jackson's lasting influence has been ever present throughout the entire spectrum of popular music. Justin Bieber has cited the singer's career as a blue print for his own, whilst the likes of Bruno Mars and Tame Impala's Kevin Parker have taken sonic inspiration from MJ.

John Newman, however, seems to have paid particular attention to the fancy footwork made famous by Jacko, demonstrated expertly at Manchester's Albert Hall.

The venue itself is quite something, a former Wesleyan chapel, it is now one of the city's most popular venues down to the incredible ambiance it creates.

The singer seemed to thrive in his surroundings and arrived onstage in extravagant fashion. A black curtain had shielded the stage as a host of images were projected onto it and Idris Elba's dulcet tone of voice delivered the same monologue heard at the start of Newman's new album Revolve.

As Elba's voice ceased, the curtain dropped to reveal Newman at the top of some glistening white stairs, a little X Factor-esque but good value nonetheless.

Newman has revealed that he worked with some of the musicians who played on Thriller, Michael Jackson's seminal album, and has taken great inspiration from the king of pop on his latest release.

It shows too, whilst the 25 year old from Leeds is known for his raspy soul music, Revolve is bursting with disco anthems and many were given an airing infront of a somewhat reserved Albert Hall crowd.

'All My Heart' (listen above) and 'Come and Get It' are solid four to the floor, trumpet blaring, big chorus stompers and prompted a few in the crowd to lose their winter coats and dance tentatively.

After revealing the pride he felt in having his elder brother as a support act, Newman went on to recall his appearance on Jools Holland where he was joined onstage by the Gap Band's Charlie Wilson.

With Wilson's face projected above the stage, Newman launched into 'Tiring Game', the song the pair collaborated on for Revolve. Newman's performance as a showman was impressive, his Jackson like shuffles and spins were enjoyable but not tacky and his vocals sounded crisp and confident.

Remarkably, for such an up tempo set he didn't appear out of breath and the tunes kept on coming. Aided by a nine piece band, including two sparkling backing singers and a miniature brass section, the singer's entire repertoire was bolstered nicely.

'Not Giving In', Newman's collaboration with Rudimental sounded particularly impressive with the help of his backing band, as did his Calvin Harris hook up 'Blame'.

By the end there was only the number one hit 'Love Me Again' left to play, unimaginative yes but as a set closer it did the job.

Ultimately it was an impressive performance infront of a crowd who you'd imagine Newman would prefer to be younger and more vibrant. The singer sparkled, but the Manchester audience could have done with a bit more northern soul.

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