"It's just gonna be a bunch of girls," groaned a young man, as he and the lady with him queued in the rain, outside Birmingham's Utilita Arena.
One might've seen the crowds, with their rainbow hoodies and light-up headbands, and presumed the same as that young man. That the arena would be full of screaming teen fangirls and possibly their begrudging male companions for the evening. But if you've ever been to a JLS show before, you'll know of the band's mass appeal for every age, identity and music taste.
Sure enough, each row of the arena was filled with people from all walks of life, coming together for what would become an emotional rollercoaster of a night.
While supporting act Shab did a decent job of opening the night, it was Tinchy Stryder's 30-minute set that really got the audience buzzing, with a mixture of nostalgic hits and a little teaser of his upcoming work.
And as the lights finally went down at 8pm, the anticipation bubbled up. It was time for the main event.
When you've been to a few JLS concerts over the years, you might worry things will be a bit predictable, especially at a 'hits' show. But, although they brought their special brand of JLS banter, saucy dance moves and best known tracks, the show also incorporated new elements to keep long-standing fans on their toes.
When promoting their comeback, the JLS boys vowed to bring together all the features that the previous tour had foregone due to the pandemic. It wasn't until witnessing these highlights that fans realised just how much they'd missed out on during the 2021 tour.
The key feature that set the tour apart was a DJ competition that turned the concert into a club night. JB and Aston went head to head with Oritsé and Marvin, playing a mix of JLS tunes and classic hits to see who could get the crowd the most hyped. Songs included Rihanna's Umbrella (which the boys famously covered), Justin Bieber's Baby and No Scrubs by TLC.
However, the impromptu party was nothing compared to the fan engagement that every JLSter dreams of...
Becoming an adult means accepting your favourite band won't notice you in the crowd and fall in love with you. That isn't the case with a JLS concert. (Well, except the falling in love part).
Two fortunate fans were really living the dream as the boys scouted them from the audience and serenaded them onstage with I Know What She Like. Aston got more than he bargained for with some risqué dance moves from one of the lucky ladies.
Fans in the floor seats were also treated to seeing JB and Oritsé, (and security), up close and personal as they ran through the arena to greet everyone.
The night truly showcased the very best JLS had to offer. From stunning vocals, cheeky chat and backflips galore. Though their voices are always flawless, JLS' success and adoration is no doubt down to their personable group dynamic and charming onstage presence. The show had a perfect balance of humour, sexiness, and heart. They had the crowd laughing, cheering and crying in equal measure.
Birmingham's Utilita Arena was graced with the presence of the JLS extended family on Saturday night. The boys brought their adorable kids onto the stage to say hello and pose for a photo, while JB gave a special shoutout to Oritsé's son Omré who couldn't be there. If that wasn't enough to get fans in their feels, a VT of Oritsé explaining the band's origin left everyone overcome with emotion.
Despite there being 15 years (and multiple kids) since they appeared on The X Factor in 2008, the outfits, staging and choreography were current and energetic. There were flames, sparks and JLS-themed confetti (red, blue, yellow and green) which only added to the thrill of the evening.
For loyal JLSters and reluctant tag-alongs alike, the concert was a fun-filled testament to the talent that JLS can't seem to shake. No truer words (lyrics) have been spoken than let's just get back together, we should've never broke up! Words to live by, boys!
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