Drake @ SSE Hydro, Glasgow, 23 Mar
Drake has been a chart presence on both sides of the Atlantic for years now and, as such, he's able to draw from a deep catalogue of hits, only bolstered by last week's release of new 'playlist' More Life. Thanks to this catalogue, and the fact that he's (fashionably) late to the stage, there's an incredible sense of urgency throughout most of his second night at the Hydro.
He races through snippets, teases, medleys and the rare full track to try and cover all the ground, lest anyone complain he didn't play 'their song' (full disclosure: there was no Best I Ever Had). However, thanks to the strength of the hits and Drake's affable, contagious charisma, he creates a tide of energy that is impossible not to get swept away on.
In lieu of intros or breaks, some songs appear as backing tracks, such as the trio of Free Smoke, Passionfruit and Trophies that begin the show, amping the crowd to breaking point. Drake finally appears, rising from the floor surrounded by dry ice to deliver, fittingly, Started from the Bottom. From there, hits are ticked off in quick fashion – HYFR, 0-100, All Me, Successful, Hotline Bling, Hold On, We're Going Home, One Dance, etc. – along with a choice selection of covers of tracks by the likes of Rihanna and Fetty Wap.
The staging is impressive throughout; fireworks, rising stages, twerking dancers, fire blasts, the coloured balloon display overhead that lowers, revolves and contorts, and the giant ball at the finale all combine to create a stunning spectacle. Giggs and Popcaan are brought out, to varying receptions. Drake even finds time to thank everyone he can think of, singling out audience members, taking shots, shouting out Scotland constantly and mispronouncing 'Glas-gOW' in a very endearing manner.
As the final show of the UK portion of the Boy Meets World tour, it's a fine send-off – he's clearly done this show dozens of times, but Drake's charm allows you to suspend your disbelief. For a whirlwind couple of hours, this is a show just for us.