X Factor Live Tour - Nottingham Arena (08/03/2009)

Lisa Norman | Monday, 09 March 2009

The lights dimmed and all around the sell out crowd were teenage girls dressed in their neon wear and glowstick finery. Boards and banners adorning their favourite idol were held high while high pitched squeals filled the air in anticipation of what was to come. Considering his current personal situation, Jeff Brazier kicked off the proceedings at Nottingham Arena in high spirits.

JLS were joined by a surprise guest appearance from Britain's Got Talent duo Signature. Laura White delivered a perfectly pitched version of the Alicia Keys hit 'Fallin' reminding the crowd how unfortunate it was she left the competition so early.

Daniel Evans, though not strong on the show, certainly delivered tonight offering a funky version of 'It's Not Unusual'. Despite her ropey personality, Rachel Hylton sang her heart out with 'Feeling Good'. The memorable auditionees were an amusing interlude.

The shy but endearing Diana Vickers arrived on a hot pink bed singing Blondie hit 'Call Me' before finishing with Take That's 'Patience' asking the crowd for a "Kodak moment" of waving arms as she sang. The crowd delivered as Vickers looked on pleased as punch. Ruth Lorenzo's version of 'Purple Rain' was excellent showcasing her powerhouse vocals. The end of the first half saw the acts perform as a group singing 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'.

Eoghan Quigg lit up the stage with High School Musical hit 'We're All in This Together', a sure fire way to get the teeny boppers going. JLS came back to perform a three song set, whipping the crowd into a frenzy with a quality performance.

Though Alexandra Burke's welcome was heartily accepted by the crowd, it was noticed that JLS received a far louder reception that of the winner. Her five song set was fantastic especially first single 'Hallelujah' and she choked back the giggles as fans sang 'Listen' before she had even sang the first word.

And all too predictably, it ended with a group rendition of 'Hero'. A great night had by all with some outstanding performances. For those who favoured JLS, the boys will be back in Nottingham supporting Lemar in April.

Rating: 5/5