OLLY MURS // OVO HYDRO, GLASGOW
A set containing hits that are old, new, borrowed and blue… Olly Murs returns to Glasgow’s OVO Hydro to kick off his UK Tour.
★★★★★ (5/5)
OLLY MURS PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S OVO HYDRO
PHOTOCREDIT: FRANK MURPHY
In the 14 years since his introduction on the X-Factor Olly Murs has produced a catalogue of pop mega-hits, displaying amazing longevity and cultivating fantastic loyalty from his fans. 2023 sees Murs established as a household name, with not just a successful music career but numerous television shows under his belt. On his current tour this popstar continues to shine brightly, and nowhere is that seen more than on the excited faces of his fans that assemble in Glasgow to hear their favourite songs.
An enthusiastic support set from Scouting for Girls primes the audience into a feel-good mood. Hits such as “She's so Lovely”, “Elvis Ain't Dead” and “Posh Girls” confirm that the crowd is in good voice, and ready for a night of singing. New single “The Place we Used to Meet” also receives a warm reception from the fans, and is hopefully a sign of things to come from the full album of the same name in October.
A quick changeover sets the stage for the main attraction of the evening, Mr Olly Murs. It has been a long 4 years since Murs last visited Scotland, and during this time the world has changed drastically. Not that this time away has dampened his fan’s enthusiasm one little bit, as a sea of wedding veils in the crowd show that his newest album, 2022's “Marry Me”, has been embraced by his fans. From the packed Ovo Hydro is seems that like the altar may end up very full.
Opening song “Marry Me” provides a showcase of Murs's strengths, puts any fears of being out of practise immediately to rest as he bounds around the stage delivering smooth vocals and energetic dance moves. A blazing medley of Elton John's “I'm Still Standing” finishes the song as Murs launches a bouquet into the crowd.
The setlist for this tour has the daunting task of covering the 14-yeardiscography of hits while also delivering songs from the newest album. The varied catalogue means that we see the steamy 80's styling of “Kiss Me” running into the sincere piano driven sound of “Right Place, Right Time”. It is testament to the quality of the show that these songs flow seamlessly and deliver high quality sound throughout.
In-between songs, Murs takes plenty of time to talk with the crowd. Sharing how important this tour is to him and that due to health issues he had worried that he would be unable to perform again.
The high energy performances take pause and a hushed reverence falls over the crowd as Murs discusses his dear friend Caroline Flack, who sadly took her own life in 2020. He talks through his feelings over the loss of a friend, and shares that he promised Flack's family that he would dedicate a song to her memory in all his shows going forwards. This leads to a powerful performance of a sombre version of “Sweet Caroline” which is followed by ballad “Dear Darlin'”, dedicated to anyone who is not with us. The two-song section is emotionally powerful and leaves many tearful faces in the audience, and on stage.
To continue on from this touching tribute is tough, and Murs does this through a change of gear. Performing ode to one to many “I Hate You When You're Drunk” leads into the second half of the set. This delivers a selection of hits, including career defining songs “Heart Skips a Beat” and “Wrapped Up”.
Before closing the set Murs talks about the matrimonial inspiration behind the “Marry Me” album and tour. Joking about becoming a “Groom-zilla” in regards to organising the wedding and tour. He does say there is one bright spot in getting to decide what goes into the reception playlist. To further the tour theme a glittering disco-ball descends and Murs plays through a 7-song medley of his wedding playlist, playing such classics as “YMCA”, “Don't Stop Believing” and “Dancing on the Ceiling”. Conducting a sing-along of these ubiquitous feel-good anthems from the stage Murs thanks the audience and band for all their help before bidding farewell.
Not one to jilt his fans at the altar, Murs returns for a rousing encore to deliver fan favourites “Dance With Me Tonight” and “Trouble Maker”. As the house lights come up fans filter out and there is a consensus from the chatter of those in attendance that they had just witnessed a stellar show.
From the pop master-class he presents, it is clear to see why Olly Murs continues to attract fans of all ages with a superb display of vocal talent and showmanship. Hopefully it won't take another 4 years for him to return.
