Within Temptation, O2 Academy, Birmingham – review and pictures

The show at Birmingham's O2 Academy saw fans of all ages pack into the city centre venue and, as the lights went down, the crowd went wild in anticipation.

Strolling on to the stage dressed in a hooded white cardigan and black and silver dress waving a white flag, singer Sharon den Adel looked great - and from the moment she began to sing, sounded even better.

The Dutch star’s vocals were without doubt highlight of the show, with a stupendous range and great strength shining through at every turn. Even when 44-year-old Sharon sang to an impressive operatic soprano pitch, her voice was unwavering.

Her stage presence was fantastic too, as she ran from side to side of the stage, sang into the crowd, and danced and jumped to the music.

“Hello, how are you doing?” beamed Sharon.

“It’s so good to be back again.

“The weather’s s***** outside, but you’re inside now.”

Filled with songs new and old, fast paced and slow, the band's set was greatly varied; the hits going down a storm as the audience sang along and the newer numbers sounding fabulous too.

Fans were treated to an array of favourites including Stand My Ground, Faster, and Paradise, as well as a number of new tracks including Raise Your Banner, Endless War and Supernova.

Lead guitarist Ruud Jolie impressed with numerous strong, gritty yet symphonic solos, while the hefty drum beats could be felt through the floor as moving graphics lit up the back of the stage and smoke shot into the air.

“Thank you so much for tonight,” said Sharon during the encore, which featured a thrilling rendition of What Have You Done.

“Hopefully we’ll be at one of the festivals soon in England.”

Hopefully indeed - bring on the summer.