It’s a slightly unusual setting for the Smoove-sters tonight as they emerge into 2026 with a raft of gigs and a statement of intent with their forthcoming ‘Singles tour’. Reduced to a minimal ‘band’ ensemble, tonight’s show at the Loading Bay – moved due to high demand – is a fairly laid back, dj and vocal style, outing.  Casual in both set up and in production, the Smooves rely mostly on the vocals of John Turrell tonight in floating over the live dj/effects production of Smoove in the creation of a blissed-out, cool, soulful take on funk, northern soul, groove and r n’b.  Powerful as a band, the reduced outing work well tonight by cleverly switching the focus to Turrell’s vocals and ability to look naturally comfortable as the frontperson.  If tonight is a trial at the Loading Bay of putting on these types of events then it works well given the relaxed atmosphere, the level of dancing, and the casual-yet-seriousness overture of the event.  Smoove and Turrell have always been well known, well thought of and well respected- here’s hoping 2026 and their Singles Tour builds that momentum further.