If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably watch Il Divo’s videos on YouTube. However, it pales in comparison when you’re watching them perform live.
Hailed as the first and most successful classical crossover group across the globe, the beloved popera group finally returned to our local shores after 4 years. Tenors David Miller and Urs Buhler, together with baritone Carlos Marin and Sebastien Izambard were in Malaysia for their “Timeless” tour.
With a show named “Timeless”, we were expecting to hear lots of classic tunes and love songs. Besides serenading the Malaysian audience at the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting, with most of the tracks from their 9th and newly-released studio album of the same name, the group also blessed us with plenty of old favourites.
Following the instrumentation piece of “Overture”, Il Divo kicked off their Malaysian concert with “Hola” (a Spanish-language version of Adele’s “Hello”). Concert-goers got the chance to hear the brand new songs from “Timeless” including John Legend’s “All Of Me”, Robbie William’s “Angels”, Natalie Cole’s “Unforgettable”, and Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender”.
During the 2-hour concert, which was divided into Act 1 and Act 2, Il Divo gave us a masterclass in the art of operatic genius when they sang mainly in Italian and Spanish. It was set for a night of passion, laughter and powerful vocals as the audience was transported back in time when the quarter performed songs from popular soundtracks – “Come What May” (“Moulin Rouge”), “My Hear Will Akways Go On” (“Titanic”).
Although there were 6 Latin dancers (2 male, 4 females) for a handful of songs, we felt that the “Timeless” tour worked best when it was just Il Divo letting their soaring vocals take centre stage, while backed by the superb orchestra. At the end of the day, their greatest instrument are still their vocals.
While Il Divo shared vocal duties for most selections, one of the highlights was when each singer performed their own solo number (OMG the solos!) as it allowed their individuality to shine through. The introvert of the group, Urs, recalled how when he was 10 years old, he’d dwell on a big book of mythical creatures. “Die Zauberflote” was Mozart’s magic flute about declaration of love to a princess. When it came time for Carlos to sing “Granada” alone, he was every bit of showmanship personified.
For Act 2, the talented singers looked better, having changed into their tuxedos. After serenading the crowd with a few more songs from “Timeless”, it was Sebastian’s turn. While Urs talked about his past, Sebastian decided to delve into the present. Having released another solo LP “We Came Here To Love”, the 45-year-old French singer sang his own single, “Up”. The dancey pop track was drastically different from the opera songs they’ve been singing. It was a nice change of pace but felt odd being sandwich with the rest of their set list.
Right before David performed his solo effort titled, “Vesti la giubba Pagliacci”, he received a few screams when he took off his tie. When he launched into Ruggero Leoncavallo’s 1892 operatic piece, it felt like the vocalist had struck a lightning of emotion through everyone’s heart. It was extremely passionate and rightfully deserved the crowd’s standing ovation. David’s solo was easily our favourite among the guys.
Speaking of standing ovation, Il Divo ended the night with a stunning rendition of “Somewhere”, from “West Side Story”. To quote a fan, if ever given a chance to attend a Il Divo concert, beg, buy, or steal a ticket – it’s not a concert to be missed, especially if you’re a fan of this genre of music.
Il Divo’s “Timeless” tour setlist:
Act 1:
“Overture”, “Hello”, “Right Here Waiting”, “Pour que tu maimes” Encore, “Angels”, “Die Zauberflote” (Urs’ solo), “Come What May”, “All Of Me”, “Love Me Tender”, “Quien Sera”, “Granada (Carlos’ solo), “My Heart Will Go On”.
Act 2:
“Grazie Amore Mio” (Love Story – Casablanca Section), “Unforgettable”, “Unchained Melody”, “Smile”, “Up” (Sebastian’s solo), “What A Wonderful World”, “I Will Always Love You”, “Vesti la giubba Pagliacci” (David’s solo), “La Vida Sin Amor”, “Somewhere”.
Encore:
“Regresa a Mi (Unbreak My Heart)”, “My Way”.
Feel free to check out the exclusive interview with David Miller here.
