THE Barbican crowd were bemused as Will Young, in his "one size fits none" outfit, sang the first song at 90 degrees to the fans being blown down with smoke and confetti more reminiscent of Kate Bush or Peter Gabriel’s live theatrics.

No-one would have guessed this was the first night of the tour as the band were rifle-shot tight yet relaxed; the audience already having been given a vocal masterclass from Lemar. Usually support acts haven’t had top ten hits but this wasn’t your usual night at a packed Barbican.

Young’s varied setlist defied pigeon holes. It was crafted, well arranged and honest. He isn’t desperate to re-invent himself or collaborate with Will.I. Am; instead, he was happy in his skin performing what and how he chooses. He had the rare gift of having charm and a joyful swagger that never trespassed into the cocksure.

You could see Young has done theatre and film and is very bright. The only thing you couldn't see was where opportunity knocked 13 years ago. Young is proof that true talent will always outlive any end-of-the-pier show sob story; so much so, he omitted the 15th best-selling song ever in the UK, Evergreen, as if to say “That was the puppet; now I pull all the strings”.

Young knew he was leaning on an open door and treated his York guests to a perfect menu of favourites old and new, from Love Revolution and Your Game to ending with Leave Right Now.

His latest album is called 85% Proof. Based on Thursday's performance, it might need to be sent back for a re-mark.