Here’s a review you probably weren’t expecting, rock fans. But I assure you, it’s about one of the most superbly sparkling gigs of 2024 so far…

Tucked away down the vibrant Canal Street in Manchester, where umbrellas are suspended in their kaleidoscopic colours and lights are strewn brightly and generously, there’s Via. The club’s bedecked with disco balls, ornate, medieval-esque architecture across multi-levels, and a dancefloor with a VIP area at the back. That’s where you can picture us^, for a special Liberty X set to mark the start of Pride in the city.

Of ‘Popstars’ TV show fame, the R&B-style group now comprises just Kelli, Jess and Michelle. They immediately know just how to engage with the modest crowd that’s forming behind them, as the front of the stage is packed to the rafters. We’re of course all there for the 30-million-streams-surpassing ‘Just A Little’, a banger that emerged on their debut record in 2002 and soared into the charts. And their diamanté-adorned canes are out in full force in Via, excellently accessorising their black outfits. 

‘Thinking It Over’ keeps everybody bouncing and, within their short set, they also treat us to sensational covers including ‘A Night To Remember’ (very fitting) and a bit of the iconic Chaka Khan for good measure. *Chef’s kiss*.

^With thanks to a very generous, fabulous person and their contacts at Via for the group backstage access.