Rumer possesses a beautiful, soulful voice and it’s on full show in the wonderful surroundings of the Bridgewater Hall.
From the opening notes of ‘Am I Forgiven’ the audience is transported, at least for this evening, to a more innocent time. Backed by a professional, six piece band, Rumer’s vocals are melodic and incisive. She is complimented to great effect by flautist Jana Varga, whose harmonies elevate Rumer’s delicate delivery.
The whole evening is a celebration of Rumer’s debut album ‘Seasons of My Soul’, released 15 years ago and the Bridgewater Hall hosted the conclusion of the tour. The audience really appreciated hearing the album in its entirety along with other notable songs from Rumer’s repertoire.
The evening continued with fan favourites such as ‘Come to Me High’, ‘Slow’ and ‘Take Me As I Am’.
With a flowing sky blue gown, contrasting with the band’s all black attire, Rumer’s joyous, angelic delivery of ‘Aretha’ and ‘Saving Grace’ kept her audience enthralled and she wasn’t about to let that connection fade one aorta. Every harmony, melody and nuanced note was absorbed by a transfixed Manchester audience, albeit some had travelled far and wide for this moment. ‘Thankful’ was a mutual salutation between the singer and her audience. Rumer continued to deliver, ‘Healer’, ‘Blackbird’ and ‘On My Way Home’ held the audience in her grasp whilst the David Gates cover ‘Goodbye Girl’ and the Hall and Oates cover ‘Sara Smile’ again showcased Rumer’s range and versatility.
The audience, almost spellbound by Rumer’s perfect delivery, responded with equal enthusiasm to other musical characters, so ably created in Rumer’s soulful delivery such as ‘Dangerous’, ‘Piza and Pinball’, ‘’The Fate of Fireflies’ and’Arkansas’.
Rumer was effortless. She sang with an angelic, joyous, soulful confidence that delighted all who had the fortune to experience such an amazing show. And in the title of her final song, ‘That’s That’.
But not quite. To a resounding ovation Rumer came for the obligatory encore. This time we got to hear her interpretation of Christopher Cross’ ‘Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)’ and again the best Rumer can do is almost peerless. To be transported for an hour and a half to a place of joy was an experience everyone should have the opportunity to share.
Words by Andrew Goodlad
Photos by Philip Goddard
