In the magnificent central auditorium which is festooned with twinkling lights, two Christmas trees stand proudly in front of the UK's second largest pipe organ (the largest in Liverpool Cathedral) and the scene is set. With his band and the Royal Orchestra in place, the beat for 'Little Drummer Boy' begins and from stage left Porter makes his entrance, to thunderous applause.
The perfect tempo to kick off the show, Porter eases into the evening. 'Liquid Spirit' gets the bpms up and hands clapping. Tweaking the lyrics on 'Christmas Spirit' the mood picks up and Porter gets firmly into his groove. 'If Love Is Overrated' takes us to epic proportions with saxophonist Tivon Pennicott deserving of special mention, his excellent solo literally blew us away.
'Hey Laura' sounds as fresh as ever, as does 'A Cradle in Bethlehem' which was first recorded by Porter's forever hero Nat King Cole, who would surely be proud of tonight's performance.
'Make Believe' featuring Billie Fraser and the Children's Choir, marking today's release day in support of the deserving charity War Child, brings the first half to a close.
After the break, the second half begins with the refreshing vibes and the beautifully lit 'Revival' which talks about finding hope even in the darkest of times. “Modern Day Apprentice” sees the incredible Kingdom Orchestra at their best with Christmas standards “Do You Hear What I Hear?” another orchestral confirmation. Vocally Porter seems to get better with age, plumbing the wonderful depths of his range with ease.
Never one for saccharine nostalgia Porter has the ability to touch so much because he's not afraid to travel from easy classics to places of pain and suffering. Tonight is no different, including a standout performance of “Take Me To The Alley.” He recounts the times his mother took him to “sing for the afflicted in the dark places,” fondly recalling that “those were the people who first confirmed my talent.”
It's hard to think of another artist whose vocals can warm like a crackling fire, soothe like a fine mulled wine, and enjoy like the pop of a cracker. A Christmas trio concludes the evening with the lively Porter-penned “Christmas Wishes” and “Heart for Christmas.” As the encore begins with the classic 'Chestnuts roasting on an open fire' it is 'The Christmas Song' that will end this magical festive evening.
Tonight, there was only one star to follow and oh what great joy it brought. A spectacular musical evening that must be repeated every December. Here is hope.
If you want Gregory Porter around your table for Christmas, and who wouldn't, make sure 'Christmas Wish' is in your stocking.
List definition
Set 1
The little Drummer
Liquid Spirit (lyrics changed to Christmas Spirit)
Christmas Waltz
All is not lost
If love is overrated
Hi Laura
A cradle in Bethlehem
Silent night
Make Believe with Billie Fraser and the Children's Choir
Set 2
Revival
Modern apprentice
Do you hear what I hear?
No Love Dying
Take me to the Alley
Holding On Disclosure Cover
Christmas wish
Heart for Christmas (with band intros)
I call again:
The Christmas Song (arranged by Mel Tormé)
