Review: The Wonder of Stevie at Newark Palace Theatre

The Wonder of Stevie, wasn’t so much a tribute act as a celebration and showcase of all that is Stevie Wonder.

Giving voice to Stevie’s songs was Noel McCalla, who was joined by award-winning saxophonist Derek Nash, of Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, and a live band featuring musicians who have performed alongside stars such as Shirley Bassey, Soft Cell and even Stevie Wonder himself.

From the soulful saxophone solos of Sir Duke to the Latin beats of Don’t You Worry ‘bout a Thing, the full genius and diversity of Stevie Wonder’s discography was on display in this incredibly upbeat show.

The fun and excitement was clear from the start. Never have I seen a group of musicians, so enthusiastic about what they were doing. Every chorus sung, every solo, every musical interlude, they were feeding off each other.

It wasn’t just ten individuals playing the parts to any old songs, it was ten incredibly talented musicians coming together to perform their favourite songs.

The performances were faithful enough to be recognisably Stevie, but not so rigid as to have no personality and Noel had a control over the songs, which he obviously knew inside and out, putting his own spin on them.

The band jumped through the decades, from the smash hit tracks of Signed, Sealed, Delivered and the Bob Marley collaboration of Master Blaster, to lesser known numbers.

The atmosphere continued to build, with the crown on their feet for Once in My Life and swaying along to Isn't She Lovely but the show wouldn't have been complete without the immortal, unmistakable sound of Superstition to round things off.

This was a celebration of a true musical icon.