Gilbert O'Sullivan at Darlington Civic Theatre

HE was the superstar who topped the UK and US single charts in the 1970s with songs of endearing tunefulness, unabashed sentiment and existentialist musings. Today, British singer-songwriter Gilbert O’Sullivan continues to be regarded with tremendous affection and his songs remain well-loved around the world.

Following the release of his latest album Latin ala G!, recorded in Madrid with a Latin influence, Gilbert and his regular touring band will be playing a string of UK dates in February, including Darlington. To listen to the new album go to:

https://soundcloud.com/salvolabel/sets/gilbert-osullivan-latin-ala-g/s-h12Xg

The performer born Raymond Edward O'Sullivan, in 1946, in Ireland, first came to our attention in 1970 with the top ten hit Nothing Rhymed. Alone Again (Naturally) topped the US charts for six weeks and earned three Grammy nominations. Hits such as Clair, Get Down and Why Oh Why Oh Why and three Ivor Novello awards came to a halt partly through legal action. The 2000s have seen Gilbert enjoying a career revival with The Berry Vest of Gilbert O'Sullivan returning him to the UK Top 20 in 2004, Gilbertville (2011) enjoying success in the UK and Japan plus well-received performances at the 2008 Glastonbury Festival and London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2009.

His recent compilation entered the UK album charts at Number 12. Gilbert O'Sullivan: The Very Best Of – A Singer & His Songs (2012) led to Ooh Wakka Doo becoming the theme song for National Lottery adverts across the UK. Cover versions of his songs continue to be released, in particular Alone Again recently inspiring Neil Diamond and Diana Krall, featuring Michael Buble.

* Monday, February15, Darlington Civic Theatre. Box Office: 01325-486555 or darlingtoncivic.co.uk

Viv Hardwick