Backstreet Boys – This Is Us Tour

You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a gaggle of women in their late 30’s sing I Want It That Way outside the 02, complete with M&S knicker flashing. In fact, the whole place was teeming with oestrogen, waiting impatiently for four grown men to grace the stage and make them swoon. After much anticipation (and a booing session when Jedward arrived and took their seats), the Backstreet Boys finally emerged, belting out Everybody (Backstreet’s Back) to thunderous cheers. So far, so good. Then, rather unfortunately, the cracks appear and the show ends up becoming a rather tedious affair.

Perhaps the ‘boys’ feel that if Take That can come back strong after their wilderness years, then why not them? Sadly, I couldn’t help but think I was watching the cast of Dad’s Army. They’re very much men now, and the leaping about and (much) younger female dancers only added to the fact that their glory days are long behind them. The music itself is great, holding up surprisingly well after nearly 10 years. But why on earth do they throw away a bunch of memorable hits and sing about a third of them? The One, Quit Playing Games, The Call, Shape Of My Heart, all granted a verse, chorus, and then tossed aside. There was no real chance to enjoy some of their past successes in such a swift fashion.
But, of course, the main point of the tour is to showcase their new material, which went down like a lead balloon. Frantic pleading for audience participation only served to make it all the more cringe-worthy, with AJ running to the sides of the stage asking us all to chant “PDA” (Public Display of Affection apparently, one of the weaker new tracks). Seriously, I’d rather just pop to the bar if it’s all the same with you.

The many flaws aside however, any sort of credibility is completely unnecessary. Girls come to scream and wave banners and throw teddy bears at the boys, and gush excitedly on the train home about how ‘amazing’ it all was. For that purpose, it worked a treat. It certainly doesn’t mean that it’s the best concert you’re ever likely to see. If they claim that “This Is Us”, then maybe it’s best to pass.

Source: Pink Paper News.Com