Review: Resolution Concert, Princes Street Gardens

Published on Friday 31 December 2010 13:00

Resolution Concert, *** Princes Street Gardens

WHEN this major expansion of the Capital's Hogmanay celebrations was conceived, the concept was simple: Edinburgh-born singer/songwriter KT Tunstall would present a selection of her favourite artists, before giving a headlining performance of her own biggest hits.

It not only proved to be a fantastic idea, but one that deserves to become an annual fixture.

As the Gardens began to fill with cold but merry revellers, Silver Columns got the evening's entertainment under way against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

If the opening act's brand of disco electronica was a tad energetic for those nursing hangovers, then Glasgow's Kassidy were soon on hand to offer something altogether different - the guitar-wielding outfit's blend of harmony and grittiness earning them an instant rapport with the crowd.

Next, Tunstall made a guest appearance on backing vocals for her mentor King Creosote, aka Kenny Anderson.

The two musicians grew up together in St Andrews, though their careers have taken very different paths. While Tunstall has sold million of albums and plays to huge crowds around the world, Anderson sells modestly and plays to diehard fans in small venues.

Still, while many of the crowd hadn't heard of Anderson before, all left as fans.

Being asked to curate and headline an event like this is the ultimate sign you have pricked a layer of the nation's consciousness - and Tunstall did not disappoint.

"It's my turn!" yelled the 35-year-old after a receiving rapturous reception from the home crowd. "It's such a pleasure to have the chance to do for you what those guys did last night . . . but when we all feel a bit hungover."

The former busker, who wore sparkly gold leggings, performed hits including Suddenly I See and Other Side Of The World, and even threw in an unexpected cover of Erasure's A Little Respect.

All in all, this assembly of home-grown talent still gave the crowd what they wanted.