Live

Angie Stone: Indigo at the O2, London 19/10/19

One of neo-soul's foremost figures, she dazzled in North London at the first-ever Innervisions Festival. So it was no surprise that her gig at Indigo at the O2 drew a big crowd to see the 57-year-old in action again.

First up on stage was Tony Momrelle, the excellent former frontman of UK soul and funk outfit Incognito. His charismatic performance was the perfect way to set the evening off to a top start. A version of Stevie Wonder's "Golden Lady" did justice to the original and showcased why there's always a buzz when he plays.

The crowd were well warmed up by the time Stone took to the stage but, where a year ago she bounded up, this time was trickier, owing to an ankle injury 24 hours earlier. She had been advised to cancel the show, Stone revealed, but she had no intention of doing that. It's incredible that she's been in the industry for more than 40 years - for a start, she doesn't look old enough. "Green Grass Vapours" oozed style, and "Dinosaur" showcased her vocal range.

London has a special place in her heart, Stone said, and that love was reflected right back at her. "No More Rain" had all the emotional depth you'd expect, and "Wish I Didn't Miss You" sounded superb. With an excellent new album, "Full Circle" out this year, she is an artist with plenty to offer. Will she be at the top of this year's "best gigs" list? She certainly won't be far off, that's for sure.

PHOTOS: DAVE BURKE
Words Dave Burke