AMONG friends is the best way to describe Saturday’s performance from one of the modern period’s finest soul men. While the Barbican had plenty of empty seats, those taken were determined to enjoy it.

There was a contrived cult around Alexander O’Neal, which was both slick and shameless, but nevertheless stoked the atmosphere effectively.

By the time he walked on, ten minutes into the opening song, he was already in command. While the body may be weaker (at 63 that is no criticism), the voice is still a thing of power. O’Neal has lived his Hearsay material –and much more besides, judging from his ably plugged autobiography – and had it in the palm of his hand.

O’Neal has Terry Lewis and Jimmy Jam to thank for most of his hits and that duo turned out a succession of top-notch pop soul songs in the funk style of the period. Unlike the albums, the live band don't sound dated an iota. Lithe and skilled, they took much of the strain, allowing O’Neal to play to the crowd and sit back when required. The twinkle is still there but today it is more of a knowing glint but the ladies loved him regardless.

His songs have made a lifelong connection with many and Hearsay, If You Were Here Tonight and especially the stellar Criticize were built to last and wonderfully performed.

O’Neal may have cancelled his book signing earlier in the day to rest his voice but by Saturday night he was giving his measured utmost. A surprising all-true professional.