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With the pleasant summer temperatures we’ve encountered in recent weeks, an evening on the Yorkshire coast seemed like a great idea. The likes of The Script, A-ha, Simply Red, Bryan Adams, and many others have already graced the Scarborough Open Air Theatre stage during their stellar summer season. However, on this occasion, it was the turn of music royalty to tread the boards of the Open Air Theatre by way of the arrival of none other than Sir Tom Jones. There was a huge attendance to witness the legendary artist's performance.
With the sun still in the sky, Germein got the proceedings underway. Hailing from Down Under, the trio of sisters certainly brought a bit of the Aussie weather with them. The group were excited to perform alongside Sir Tom, and rightly so. The family outfit delivered a set full of enthusiasm, good vibes, and catchy hooks. Songs such as "Red Rover" and the new single "Good For A Girl” along with “100 Years” certainly got the audience moving early in the evening.
The music of Tom Jones has soundtracked our lives for many years. The iconic figure has worked with some of the biggest names in the business as well as being a much-loved figure through his countless appearances on prime-time television. But first of all, can we talk about the voice? And no, we are not referring to the hit TV show in which Sir Tom stars but the artist's phenomenal vocals. At 82 years young, Jones has lost none of his range or charisma. He makes his vocal performance seem effortless throughout the show.
The artist showcased his incredible range during a spectacular gospel-tinged airing of “I Won’t Crumble with You If You Fall”. Whilst the line ‘I was born with the gift a golden voice’ during a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Tower of Song” really hit home. Not only are Jones' songs enjoyable but so too are his tales from throughout his extensive career. He reminisces about his friendship with Cat Stevens before a wonderful up-tempo take on "Popstar".
Joined by an astounding band and with a constant smile on his face, Sir Tom led the audience through many a singalong during his career-spanning setlist. As a self-confessed Bob Dylan fan, Jones put his stamp on covers of the legend's compositions such as "Not Dark Yet" and "One More Cup of Coffee". Whilst fan favourites such as "What's New Pussycat" and a bluesy rendition of “Sex Bomb” featured early in the set. Jones delivered a concert with more hits than a boxer’s punching bag, including unmistakable classics such as "Green, Green Grass of Home", "Delilah", "You Can Leave Your Hat On", and the incredibly funky "Kiss".
Whilst the artist performed sat down most of the evening, he was quick to let the audience know that he is suffering from some hip trouble, but apart from that, he is feeling fine. As the old saying goes, you can't keep a good man down, and that was certainly the case throughout the show. Even sat down, Jones would give artists half his age a run for their money. He is a powerhouse vocalist and a true entertainer. His performance at Scarborough Open Air Theatre is one of the highlights of the venue’s summer season thus far.
There are still many unmissable shows to take place at the venue over the coming weeks, including concerts from Christina Aguilera, Lewis Capaldi and George Ezra. For tickets and further details, please visit https://scarboroughopenairtheatre.com/.
Words and Photos by Adam Kennedy
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