Johnny Mathis at the O2 Arena

Old school soul with a twist of big band jazz and pop crooning: why wouldn’t that sound cool and elegant? Johnny Mathis brought his talent to The O2 last night with a stellar performance that sounded much younger and vibrant than him and the rest of the crowd. 

Mathis came onstage to the big band playing an instrumental that sounded like a cheesy 1980s crime drama theme song. Poised, confident and with style, he greeted the crowd with his sincere words of how good it felt to perform in one of his favourite cities in the world. He kept it brief and went immediately into performing his hits.

Mathis was mobile moving around the stage, and didn’t slip a verse. His voice sounded as young as his soul was, and the audience felt that energy and passion from within him. The music was a beautiful blend of old soul and Motown, with pop crooning, jazz and a mix of early 40s popular music. It was a delicacy to enjoy as an audience member, despite the fact no one over the age of 50, which made up most of the audience, got up and danced.

Mathis took a short intermission and comedian Geoff Stephenson came on for half an hour or so, providing us with some good old slapstick British humour. He was funny, but it was obvious the audience was getting a little restless and wanted Mathis to get back to the stage. Eventually he did and closed out his set with the swag and cool style he had throughout the evening.

While it’s not the hip or big rock show a young one might go to, it’s still enjoyable to witness such a talented artist as Johnny Mathis. Everyone was delighted to be part of this special evening with him.

 Joe Hoffman
Photos: Guifré de Peray

For further information and future events visit Johnny Mathis’s website here.

Watch the video for When a Child Is Born here: