Alicia's hometown was encapsulated in most aspects of the show, and was ever so prominent as the concert opened to a New York medley. Savvy projections took us on a gliding tour of the city, flying by Brooklyn Bridge and into a block window where Alicia waited. When the transparent curtain lifted, Alicia stunned in a very NY esque get up, including a wide beamed hat and a smile to match.
The show didn't need any fancy staging or pyrotechnics, but 4 dancers and a drum brought the party to Liverpool and ensured everyone left happy. 'Un-Thinkable' perfected the vibe early on, and a vivacious 'New Day' had fist's pumping. Closing a sensational set, Alicia donned some drums and led into her infectious anthem 'Girl On Fire'. The audience's ecstasy hit as hard as AK's drumsticks, and the concrete pit was filled with echo's of 'This Girl Is On Fiyerrrr' / 'This ginge is on fiyerr', as excitement levels burst.
'No One' naturally provided the most beautiful part of the night, Alicia encouraging the crowd to light up the arena as she let loose to her greatest hit to date. A little duo between man and wife backing singers was up there too though, their rendition of 'You're All I Need to Get By' being the cutest filler ever - Heart melter! When things seemed perfect enough, Hov's head appeared on the curtain rapping 'Empire State of Mind' whilst Alicia and 10,000 adoring fans covered the chorus for one last time.
Alicia Keys inspired, empowered and easily delivered one of the greatest shows of the decade.
Music prevails!
Liverpool Echo Arena, 18/05/2013
By: Sam Pollock
