As the masses rounded up in the queue and proceeded to flood the dance floor, a red hazy tint in the room lit an empty stage packed with instruments and equipment. We waited in anticipation for Rogue Symphony to come on. Suddenly the crowd went wild and on came the singers, strings, drums, guitar, bass guitar, keyboard and horn section! Yes, that’s right we were witnessing a 14 piece band on a pretty cosy stage!
Once in position, and a quick hello to the crowd, the girls proceeded to sing their first song “Bootylicious” to which the crowd went crazy and sang along. In fact every single song ranging down the list including “No No No”, “Bugaboo” and “Say My Name” had everyone showing the true power of their lyrical knowledge.
All the fans in the room, both girls and guys, really showed excitement throughout the gig at XOYO, and the second half of the show came to life with “Lose My Breath”, “Soldier” and “Survivor” as the last song. The live backing instruments not only added another dimension to the tracks and lifted the singers off stage with huge energy and vibrance but also gave this authentic air of true musical rendition in a classy package. There was no surprise that we got 2 encores with “Love On Top” and “Crazy In Love”…. what else?!
Photos by Darren bandoo
By Isabelle De Polla