TOURING once more, The Overtones have returned to York Barbican for another great big Christmas party.

The five-man group, founded in 2010, have firmly cemented themselves as some of the best vocal harmony performers in the world, with five top five albums and more one million sales since their debut.

The opener for the nigh, up-and-coming singer-songwriter Ben McKelvey, although enthusiastic, was hampered by a repetitive musical style and tendency to shout his lines instead of sing them, delivering a set that felt  lacking in polish.

Despite being a man down - lead singer Timmy Matley was unable to tour due to illness - The Overtones still turned out an absolutely stellar show. There was a genuine sense of playfulness to the proceedings; from their entrance behind the audience (and the subsequent plethora of handshakes, selfies and general geniality as they made their way through to the main stage), to the comedic video skits.

Add in an hilariously derailing argument with their light designer over the size of their Christmas tree, and the entire event was an unmitigated pleasure.

The musical performances were as strong as ever, with each man having his moment in the singing spotlight. Even the absent Matley was able to belt out a few great numbers, appearing as a 60ft projection of himself on the backdrop of the main stage. From classic Christmas tunes to pop hits, there wasn’t a single song that didn’t deliver, resulting in a massive standing ovation long after their encore.

The Overtones continue to be a first-class act, brimming with effortless charm, humour and talent.