Girls’ Night In @ The Philharmonic Music Room

Each of the members of Girls’ Night Inbring something different to the show but friendship runs through them all like a stick of rock. The camaraderie between the four is a joy to behold, and is one of the reasons this Songwriters’ Round works so well. The quality of their voices and the variety between them is a match made in heaven. For Kezia Gill’s Blues, Demi Marriner’s Americana, and the Country of Jess Thristan and Jade Helliwell, infused with Soul and Pop respectively, create a magical blend of styles. It ensures an entertaining evening for an audience as energetic as they are attentive.

The Liverpool leg of the tour takes place on Valentine’s Day, reflected in the shimmering red of Jade’s dress and plenty of nods to their respective partners (or, in Jess’s case, singleness). The message that comes through loud and clear is not one of traditional romance though but a celebration of strong and empowering womanhood. Coming on stage to ‘Man, I Feel Like a Woman’ and proceeding into ‘Hole in the Bottle’ certifies this. The ladies then start going down the line to introduce themselves, not that introductions are needed for those already versed in UK Country Music’s leading lights. Kezia’s ‘House of Cards’ is a nice reminder of her beginnings however, while ‘The Old Me’ and ‘Sins’ showcase the high bar both Jess and Demi have set for themselves. ‘Woman I Am’ has fast become Jade’s signature tune, and so for anyone unfamiliar with their music, this was the perfect introduction.

In between each round – and most songs, in fact – there was a plethora of banter, anecdotes and compliments. This was as much about their relationship as their musicianship; an insight into their characters as well as their lyrics. None more so than during the Co-write Round, where Jade featured across all four songs. But also, when a lucky four in the audience found a card under their seats with a poem inside, the accuracy of their guesses as to who had written which pointed to unique traits that were clearly coming through during their time onstage. Such insight went beyond the usual observations that could be made – like the contrast between the gorgeously gentle ‘Steady’ (Demi) and anthemic ‘Slow Dancing on My Own’ (Jess). Whether in the hilarious follow-up conversations on accents and “BV” (if you know, you know) or the facial expressions and praises given to one another’s performances, this was a show where backstage access became part of the performance.

A final round of as-yet-unreleased tracks revealed the exciting future that lies ahead for their fans. In the meantime, the collective harmonies of this quartet, first on ‘Jolene’ and then on ‘If You Go Down (I’m Going Down Too)’, offered a sumptuous treat that was savoured by the audience. For all the subtle variations in their styles, there is something about their coming together that adds an extra touch of class. Friendship is most definitely the firm foundation for this show. Which helps make Girls’ Night In the most enjoyable of nights out.

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Featured Image (C) Kezia Gill/Jade Helliwell/Demi Marriner/Jess Thristan