Stylistically unsurpassed

I have to admit to being a little sceptical when my wife announced that subsequent to a rather heated conversation with a group of friends over the musical abilities of The Stylistics, we had been brought tickets to see those iconic peddlars of 70s soul at the Indigo2.

Last evening, the eight of us pitched up at the Millenium Dome (as it shall always be know to me) to take our seats in that rather impressive smaller venue for what turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable show.

Alas, only two original Stylistics now remain.  The original falsetto lead, presumably unable any longer to hit the high notes, departed several years ago and now tours as The New Stylistics.  His replacement, former Delfonics frontman Eban Brown, was superb.

Having only been consciously aware of their 1975 chart-topper, I can give you anything, but my love, it was remarkable just how many of their other songs had been etched into my impressionable young memory more than thirty years ago.  It turns out they had 10 UK top ten hits between 1972 and 1976, among them many of the best Philadelphia soul tracks ever recorded.

Last night their singing was impeccable, their backing band, The Style Orchestra, was top notch, and their orange suits were just perfect.  But perhaps the highlight of the evening was seeing so many middle-aged people having the time of their lives. 

Here's the original line-up singing You make me feel brand new back in 1973: