19 October 2017 (gig)
20 October 2017
Being greeted at the reception desk at Quaglino’s is always a pleasure. Wide smiles and long gowns, the charming staff lead you down into the fantasy world below. Lost in time somewhere at the glamorous end of the speakeasy world, the central staircase winds towards the comfort of the dimly lit tables of this classic night spot.
Tonight, the grand stage awaits 80's legend Paul Young for an intimate dining experience that promises a 360 degree celebration of style, sound and sustenance.
Paul Young has been delighting audiences for years, his casual charm and dashing looks haven't faded. In fact it almost looks as if he’s wearing the silk jacket from his classic ‘No Parlez’ album tonight and quite frankly except for the hair colour not much has changed. His vocals are still warm and powerful; before we know it they’re treading familiar ground with ‘Love of the Common People’ and ‘Wherever I Lay My Hat’ two early covers the latter by Marvin Gaye which cemented his solo career.
The four-piece band (bass, keyboards, drums, guitar) are also worthy of a musical mention with the bond between Paul and his guitarist notable. ‘Senza La Donna’, originally by Italian singer-songwriter Zucchero but later rerecorded with Paul Young - is delightful, the backing harmonies a joy, and my particular favourite song of the night. There are many other musical highlights in the shape of ‘I'm Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down’, ‘Every Time You Go Away’ - which sees the dinners on their feet arms waving - and the nights closer ‘Come Back and Stay’.
In this sumptuous setting the cuisine alone would be enough to entice any bon-viveur but when you add the iconic cocktail bar, Grand Stage and of course Paul Young it’s a night that tick’s every box. Very much as Paul Young did in the early 80s Quaglino’s is flying to the top of my best London night spot list. A good time is almost certainly guaranteed.
