Features

Whatever you think about TV talent shows such as the X factor and Pop Idol there's no doubt winning a competition like that doesn't guarantee success - For every Leona Lewis and Girls Aloud, there's a Steve Brookstein and One True Voice.

When Scottish singer-songwriter Tommy Reilly won the the T4 show Orange unsignedAct in January 2009, he didn't become an overnight household name, but it was definitely a springboard to what's shaping up to being a successful music career.

During the show, he managed to impress all the judges with his songs, and gained a big following, especially from the ladies.

That was something, which was obvious from the start of the gig, with plenty of young girls in the front row.

As Tommy and his band mates took to the stage, they were obviously taken aback from the amount of people who made the show. “It’s our first time here tonight, and we really didn’t expect such a crowd! Thanks for coming,” he gushed.

Tantalising and Dramatic

One thing that is instantly obvious as he picks up his guitar and fluffs his hair is his complete modesty.

Despite being lauded by music industry experts such as record mogul Simon Gavin and Blur bassist Alex James, and the fact that a group of girls stand front and centre shouting for his attention, it really seems to dazzle him.

Tommy and his band played a string of summer festivals such as T in the Park and Lovebox, and have been on tour since September. It shows they've had more than enough experience on the road, leaving their set somewhere between tantalizing and dramatic.

He breezes through songs from his recently released album Words On The Floor, with the title track, I Don’t Like Coffee, and Jackets all making an appearance during his short set.

Mr Brightside

Leaving the best till last, his band leave the stage and once again Tommy thanks the audience, before launching into his hit single Gimme A Call. Whilst the crowd sing along, he struggles to mask his glee.

His final gem of the evening comes as he plays his version of The Killers classic Mr Brightside, a song he quickly gained notoriety with during his time on the show.

“I’ve had a great night,” he says after the gig. “The tour is going really well and we’re all really enjoying it. Hopefully we’ll be coming back again soon.”

“It’s a brilliant venue,” concluded drummer Matthew Roberts. “We’re looking to release a live album next year, and there’ll definitely be another tour. We’d love to come back to Stoke.”