#Review: The Stylistics, Liverpool Philharmonic

The Stylistics are a staple classic of the ever evolving music industry. Their music transcends time however it must be noted that their audience demographics in Liverpool’s prestigious Philharmonic Hall on a cold, rainy Friday night definitely were mostly in their twilight years. That said, they knew every word to each song and happily and loudly sang the lyrics back to the performers.  

There are two remaining members of the original band: Airrion Love and Herbert Murell.  who were joined by newcomers Bo Henderson, who performed as lead vocalist on most of the tracks and Jason Sharp. I say newcomers however they, along with their talented band of musicians, have been part of The Stylistics for over the two decades. Bo’s voice was sharp and pierced the many high notes that most of their tracks required.  He was truly magnificent!

They performed with ease with Herbert exclaiming on numerous occasions the affinity they have with Liverpool and how they always receive a particularly warm welcome which they highly appreciate. Not that it was needed, however Herbert endeared himself further by saying he feels in the presence of greatness as Liverpool is synonymous across the globe for producing quality musicians who have shaped the music industry. This comment was received with rapturous applause and hollering whoops. 

They were slick, with dance moves that punctuated the meaningful high notes of their tracks.  They were dressed immaculately with matching shoes and shoes that gleaned and shone just like the pride they took in their performance.  This was proper old school, top notch good quality music. 

Herbert did most of the talking in between tracks, reminiscing and explaining their inspiration for songs; who had gone on later to record and perform them and what number in the charts they reached with certain tracks.  He reminded the audience that they formed in 1966 back at their  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, local high school.  He and Airrion have been lifelong friends who have rarely had a cross-word between them and he hopes that this will go on until they both reach the end of their days. 

Airrion was hilarious, explaining to the audience that at 73 years old everything was still in full working order, and how the introduction of a certain ‘magic’ blue pill would prove to be an interesting night for any females who would like to party back at his hotel room.  Writing this, does sound a bit creepy however that was not how it was delivered.  He was humble, funny and enigmatic which no doubt explained why numerous ladies ran from their seats to the front of the stage asking for him to pick them whilst their husbands looked on and laughed. It was hilarious.

This was a concert that was like putting on your favourite jumper: comfortable, warm, safe, relaxing and utterly precious.

Set list: 

Heavy Falling Out, Star On A TV Show, Sing Baby Sing, Stone In Love, Betcha By Golly, Never Get To Heaven, Thank You Baby, 16 Bars, Let’s Put It All Together, Break Up TO Make UP, Stop, Look Listen, You Are Everything.

Encore: 

Jenny, Na Na, I Can’t Give You Anything.. ​