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Emotional homecoming nearly ends in tears - Olivia Dean at The O2 reviewed

Daily Star's music guru witnesses Olivia Dean's UK arena tour reach its peak with a series of six sold shows at London's The O2

[Olivia Dean]

Olivia Dean is in the middle of a sell out arena tour(Image: Helen and Peter Knott)

It was an emotional homecoming at the first of six sold out nights at Londons premier arena, The O2.

"Oh my God I cannot even begin to explain how crazy this is, I have seen so many gigs in this venue, she shared excitedly before pointing to all the areas of the vast space she has sat as punter.

To be playing here is really special Ill try not to cry but well see how I get on.

Safe to say Liv failed in that particular quest, blubbing in front of her entire family like a good 'un after a meticulous rendition of Messy.

Embracing an old school soul aesthetic, the night began with the star silhouetted dramatically against pastel drapes, then emerging in sequins for mellow bop, Nice To Each Other.

The muted stage resembled a late '60s TV show, and she bossanova'd to the sophisticated groove of So Easy flanked by bandmates who looked more like kids in their oversized suits.

Its Livs relatability which makes her gigs so special and her house rules were adhered to throughout: "have a good time and be present.

Indeed Olivia always looks like shes having a ruddy good time, its infectious, and she seemed genuinely thrilled getting up close to fans on a B-stage in the middle of the arena.

Her rise may seem rapid, but some fans at the front reminded Liv of her humble beginnings, holding up a sign referencing early demo White Trainers which sparked embarrassed giggles: I cant play that, its too old!

Instead she eloquently explained the concept of her current music, created to "define what love actually means rather than muddle along and hope for the best.

Shes wise beyond her years concluding loving someone truly is about wanting them to be best version of themselves before a heartbreaking Let Alone The One You Love.

This felt like a real special moment in Livs young career.

From The Hardest Part to a show-stopping Man I Need, joyful fans knew every syllable proving shes mastered the art of connection, across the world.

Concert Rating ****

Catch 'Liv back at The O2 in June and at Radio 1's Big Weekend in Sunderland later this month.

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