In the intimate surroundings of the art deco BBC Radio Theatre, Jo Whiley opened the newest Radio 2 In Concert series by listing the manifold accolades and achievements of Paul Weller, the modfather who recently celebrated his 60th birthday.
“His latest album, True Meanings, is something very special, I’m sure you’ll all agree,” Whiley said moments before Weller appeared. And agree they certainly did: the six songs Weller performed from it during an hour-long set proved among the most memorable. He was accompanied by the lush orchestration of the London Metropolitan Orchestra alongside his usual band, and the pastoral folk arrangements soared.
For an artist who has experimented over the course of 26 albums, it was moving — and a relief — to see Weller allow himself the time for introspection across a selective, career-spanning set. It helped, too, that he looked so relaxed dressed in a casual rugby shirt and jeans.
Weller’s description of his new songs — “grandiose yet delicate” — proved apt, especially on the stunning Aspects. One of Weller’s strongest in years, its delicate orchestration and emotive lyricism proved powerful, as did The Soul Searchers and Mayfly.
Elsewhere, songs from The Style Council and The Jam worked well alongside newer material. “Here’s an old song,” Weller laughed, before introducing a tender version of Boy About Town; Tales From The Riverbank and A Man of Great Promise also wowed.
Hits from the beloved Stanley Road were met with awed silence, with Weller taking to the piano for You Do Something To Me. This was a memorable evening for Weller, and one that moved both him and the audience.
