Caity Baser delighted fans in her homecoming gig at the O2 Guildhall in Southampton on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old – who grew up in Chandler’s Ford – performed 14 songs from her ‘Caity’s Still Learning’ mixtape.
The infusion of pop songs, that included ‘I’ll Be Here For You,’ chart hit ‘Pretty Boys,’ and ‘Oh Well,’ was met by universal cheers from young fans who packed into the Guildhall.
They formed long queues across Guildhall Square for nearly an hour before doors opened at 7pm, which quickly brought an abrupt end to skateboard enthusiasts wheeling up and down the square.
The Brit Award Rising Star nominee made a spectacular entrance to her setlist as she crashed through an enormous learner sign that had been covering the centre of the stage.
Baser is undoubtedly an energetic stage presence, as she didn’t stop dancing, jumping, and kicking the air for 90 minutes in synchronisation to the varying beats.
READ MORE: Our review of And Then There Were None at Mayflower Theatre
The performer was able to showcase her vocal range – more than once mimicking Freddie Mercury’s legendary back and forth with a captive audience who were all too happy to join in and add to the atmosphere of the one-off night in Southampton.
For first time viewers of Baser’s live act, it may have been surprising just how expletive-heavy some of the songs were – as well as occasional conversations with concertgoers – though it fed into many of the song themes that included love, friendship, and breakups.
It was an emotional evening for the Richard Taunton College and Thornden School alumnus – with her family in attendance – who first graced the Guildhall as a teenager with her mum to watch The Wombats.
The concert was an entertaining evening that demonstrated how to make the most out of lighting and sound effects – with a lot of care and attention clearly put into the show.
It wouldn’t be beyond doubt to say that Baser’s future performances in Southampton will be held at even bigger venues – as wonderfully intimate as the Guildhall is – with fans sure to flock back to see the pop singer at the earliest opportunity.
Last month, Baser told the Echo: “Growing up was not fun for me, school was not fun for me.
“I was the loud theatre kid no-one understood. People thought I'd never be anybody, but life is crazy now. I'm enjoying it, I love the chaos!"
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