Gig review: Marti Pellow at The O2 London – Love Truly All Around

Celebrity Interviews

Published on Monday, 03 November 2025 12:10

Last Updated on 03 November 2025

Monica Costa

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Marti Pellow’s concert at The O2 on Sunday, 2 November 2025, was a masterclass in showmanship, nostalgia, and unfiltered joy. In celebration of one of the generation’s most iconic love songs, Love Is All Around, Marti is currently on a thrilling UK arena tour marking a monumental 30 years since the release of the timeless hit that defined a decade – and, for many, a lifetime.

From the moment the lights dimmed and that familiar Scottish charm filled the arena, the crowd knew they were in for something special. Pellow’s performance was a high-energy, impeccably produced journey through his remarkable career — seamlessly blending Wet Wet Wet classics with his solo gems. It was a night that proved why Marti remains one of Britain’s most enduring and beloved figures in pop music.

The set list was a glorious balance of nostalgia and reinvention. Fan favourites like Wishing I Was Lucky, Sweet Little Mystery, and Goodnight Girl had the audience singing word for word, while newer tracks showcased the maturity and emotional depth of his solo work. Marti’s voice, still rich and distinctive, has lost none of its warmth or range. His live vocals are nothing short of fantastic — powerful yet tender, playful yet sincere.

Dressed in a shimmering sequinned black suit and still looking half his age, Pellow’s stage presence exuded charisma and confidence. He’s a natural showman — a bundle of happiness with infectious energy and, yes, those famously great moving hips. Between songs, he chatted with the audience, sharing personal stories and reflections that gave the night an intimate, conversational tone despite the vastness of The O2.

At one point, he addressed the crowd with palpable emotion, saying:

“To think it’s been 30 years since Love Is All Around became such a huge part of my life is amazing. It’s not just my song – it belongs to the fans. Celebrating this milestone with them is going to be incredibly special. And I’ve got something exciting planned around the song itself – I can’t wait to share more soon!”

That connection between Marti and his audience was evident throughout the night. When he later told the crowd,

“I enjoyed your gift of harmony and connecting with each other,”
it perfectly captured the atmosphere — one of unity, warmth, and shared nostalgia.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQkvpdZCJZo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The band and backing singers were outstanding, delivering a slick, professional production that elevated every song. The chemistry between them and Marti was tangible, creating moments of pure musical synergy. Highlights included a rousing rendition of With A Little Help From My Friends, a Chic-inspired medley that had everyone on their feet, and a surprise cover of David Bowie’s Let’s Dance, which kicked off the encore with a storm of energy and delight. His take on McFadden and Whitehead’s Ain’t No Stopping Us Now sealed the night with a joyous, dance-floor-filling finale.

The 90-minute set flew by — a sign of a truly captivating performance. Pellow not only revisited his past but reimagined it, reminding everyone why those songs meant so much in the first place. He managed to blend humour, heart, and humility in a way that felt both polished and authentic.

The concert was a perfect example of how good things can be when artist, band, backing singers, and production team work in perfect harmony. It wasn’t just a gig — it was a celebration of connection, love, and longevity.

As I left The O2, I couldn’t help but smile. Like everyone else, I definitely felt it in my fingers and in my toes — but most of all, I felt it right in my heart.

Verdict: 5/5 stars

A flawless celebration of love, music, and enduring charisma. Marti Pellow still has it — and he’s not stopping any time soon.