G LIVE in Guildford offered the perfect entertainment venue for the halfway point of Heather Small’s tour.

The theatre was full of adrenaline and excitement as the audience looked forward to rekindling their 90s music dance days and many were dressed for the part.

First up were four-piece support act Ooberfuse, who describe themselves as an electro-influenced alt-pop band. Lead vocalist Cherrie Anderson introduced each song, its meaning and influence.

Ooberfuse were clearly talented musicians with a fantastic attitude but unfortunately their style of music was just not to my taste.

However, the audience did become animated to one particular track – Vanish the Night (Putin Must Go)!!

After the interval, the rest of the crowd piled in from the bar to see the main event.

Heather didn’t disappoint with her instantly-recognisable, soulful and faultless vocals. She looked absolutely fantastic in platform heels and a gold sequinned outfit. Her energy was infectious throughout and the crowd were on their feet within minutes as they sang along to classics such as Itchycoo Park and Search for the Hero.

The four-piece band and two backing singers were so smooth and performed the M People and Heather’s tracks expertly.

After jumping up and down for an hour Heather still had the energy for her final song, an uplifting performance of Movin on Up after highlighting the difficult times we have all been through with the Covid pandemic.

She thanked everyone for coming to support her and made us all remember just how much positivity live music can bring. Heather was an inspiration and clearly still loves showcasing her fantastic talent!

By Alex Woodbee