There’s no better way to return to gig reviewing after a decade out, than with Aston Merrygold on his Grateful UK tour at The Waterfront, in Norwich.
Best known as a member of JLS; with five UK number ones, over ten million records sold, and multiple sold-out arena tours, Aston brought that same star power to a far more intimate setting. Norwich marked the sixth stop on an eight-date run, and proved that a smaller venue can elevate a show rather than diminish it. The evening delivered exactly what the Grateful tour promised: a genuine, more personal connection with fans.
With no support act, the night eased in on a wave of nostalgic noughties hits before Aston took to the stage. Any concern about the stripped-back format quickly disappeared as he powered through a 22-song set, showcasing his solo catalogue; blending ballads with high-energy crowd-pleasers. He opened the night energetically with ‘Vertigo’, ‘Cookies and Cream’, and ‘One Night in Paris’, while ‘Get Stupid’ and ‘You Chose Me’ brought the set to a strong close. The title track, ‘Grateful’, neatly captured the tone of the night—a celebration of both his journey and the fans, who have either supported him in his career from day one, or were seeing him in Norwich for the first time that evening.
What set the show apart was its warmth. In a venue like The Waterfront Aston’s natural charisma had room to shine. He seemed right at home; joking with the crowd, fielding calls for his trademark backflip (despite a recent injury), and even leading a playful drinking game during his song ‘Trudy’. The crowd were encouraged to partake in sipping their drink every time the lyric ‘Trudy’ was uttered. Aston, of course, joined in himself with tequila and pineapple juice.
It’s the balance of polished performance and relaxed charm that made the night feel special. Aston didn’t just perform to the crowd, he shared the evening with them, creating the kind of experience that isn’t possible in larger venues.
Having already announced this as his final solo tour for the foreseeable future, Aston closed the show with a heartfelt message: “Thank you Norwich, you’ve been incredible. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you soon”. On the strength of this performance and the evening as a whole, that’s a return Norwich and fans further afield will be hoping for.
