The group bid a fond and nostalgic farewell to fans in this understated concert.
Filled with all of their biggest hits, Boyzone took to the stage last weekend for their final performance as a group to provide what was an extremely heartfelt and nostalgic concert that had fans singing their hearts out from start to finish.
While it can be said that the staging is very understated with the backdrops on the screens providing plenty of the colour, there is no denying that this was genuinely poignant concert that had the crowd getting involved – singing along, reminiscing on fond memories and there were plenty of tears along the way.
From the soaring ‘A Different Beat’ to ‘A Picture of You’, all of Boyzone’s biggest songs were covered effectively, providing plenty of joy along the way. It was clear throughout that this was a concert designed for the fans, so nostalgia was really key – but it also felt a little bit sombre that was slightly surprising.
It was lovely to see that the memory of Stephen Gately being honoured in a sequence that allowed us to hear his beautiful vocals in ‘Better’ and ‘Gave It All Away’ (which hit a powerful punch particularly given the opening lyrics) that sent shivers down the spine around the Emirates Stadium. It also opened the door for fans to share the names of their loved ones that makes it feel even more of unifying experience. It just feels as though this section just lingers over much when it should be a celebration on all that Boyzone have achieved.
This minor flaw aside, there is no denying the love and appreciation that the group have for the fans – their speeches and interactions with the crowd really seemed heartfelt and came at the right points in the show.
Songs such as ‘When the Going Gets Tough’ and ‘Love is a Hurricane’ offers a joyful part to proceedings, while the moment in which Mikey Graham joins the other three members on stage gets the biggest and heartfelt moment on stage – it is truly memorable moment in the show.
There is plenty of laughter, joy and tears that are shared throughout that makes it for an ideal final performance from a group that have been adored by many over the last 30 years. Yes it is understated, but the whole point is that it is supposed to bring back memories and to be a sincere thank you to those that have supported the group over the years.
Overall, it felt like a fitting farewell to Boyzone who have provided plenty of joy to their fans throughout the years.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️