Holding Back The Years at The Maddermarket Norwich – 18th April 2026
Review & Photography by John Rawstron
olding Back The Years – The Ultimate Simply Red Tribute delivered a fantastic evening of music in Norwich, capturing the unmistakable sound, soul, and sophistication that made Simply Red one of Britain’s most beloved bands. The show is renowned for recreating the atmosphere of a live Simply Red concert, with a talented lead vocalist backed by first-class musicians who faithfully bring Mick Hucknall’s classic songs to life.
From the opening number “It’s Only Love” the audience was completely engaged as hit after hit filled the venue. The band’s attention to detail was remarkable, recreating the rich arrangements and smooth grooves that defined Simply Red’s greatest recordings. Classics such as “Stars”, “Fairground”, “Something Got Me Started”, and the timeless “Holding Back The Years” were performed with passion, precision, and genuine respect for the original material.
The vocalist captured the essence of Mick Hucknall without ever slipping into parody, delivering powerful performances that balanced soulful emotion with impressive vocal control. Meanwhile, the musicianship throughout the band was exceptional, with every member contributing to an authentic and polished sound.
What made the evening particularly special was the connection between the band and the audience. Fans sang along enthusiastically, danced in the aisles, and embraced every familiar chorus. The atmosphere was warm, uplifting, and filled with nostalgia, reminding everyone why Simply Red’s catalogue remains so enduringly popular.
Holding Back The Years performed two sets, playing the very best songs from Simply Red, every lyric sung and every note played were done absolutely perfectly, to the extent that you thought you were at an Simply Red Concert. After their set, they returned to the stage for a two song encore “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” and “Something Got Me Started”.
It is no wonder that Simply Red’s Bassist from the Stars LP “Shaun Ward” joined them on stage last year, for a surprise performance, as they are the worlds most in demand Simply Red Tribute Act. By the end of the night, Holding Back The Years had proven exactly why they are regarded as one of the UK’s premier Simply Red tribute acts.
Despite this fantastic show being in a theatre, with little room to move at the front, it didn’t stop people from getting up and dancing. For both lifelong Simply Red fans and newcomers alike, this was a thoroughly entertaining show packed with outstanding musicianship, classic songs, and feel-good energy. A memorable night in Norwich that left the audience wanting more.
