Wait, who is Sophie Ellis-Bextor?
If you’ve somehow missed her (no judgment, but... how?), Sophie Ellis-Bextor is the woman behind some of the most infectious pop-disco anthems of the early 2000s. Think glam, think powerhouse vocals, think eyeliner sharp enough to cut glass.
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She burst into mainstream consciousness with “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love)”—a track so effortlessly cool it still feels fresh two decades later. And from there? A string of hits like “Take Me Home,” “Catch You,” and the immortal “Murder on the Dancefloor.” All wrapped up in a voice that’s just a little sultry, a little playful, and completely unmistakable.
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But she’s not just a voice from the past—far from it. Sophie’s been consistently reinventing herself. From disco revivalist to indie darling to lockdown legend (more on that in a sec), she’s not just relevant—she’s essential.
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The Lockdown Kitchen Disco—yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like
During the pandemic, when the world felt like it had lost its sparkle, Sophie and her husband, musician Richard Jones (yep, from The Feeling), started streaming live performances from their kitchen. Dressed in sequins, surrounded by their kids, and singing live with fairy lights twinkling in the background—it was wholesome chaos. And it was joy.
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If you missed those, honestly, go down a YouTube rabbit hole later. They were weirdly emotional—equal parts glam and grit. It made people feel human again. And it reminded us that Sophie isn’t just a pop star; she’s someone who gets it.
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Why ALB Festival Colchester?
Here’s the thing about ALB Festival—it’s got a bit of everything. Indie darlings? Check. Local food trucks slinging wood-fired pizza at 11pm? You bet. Dance tents and craft gin? Obviously.
But Sophie’s set? That’s the one to circle on your wristband with a biro.
Seeing Sophie Ellis-Bextor live is not just a nostalgia trip (though yes, she will play the hits). It’s an experience. Her shows are theatrical, energetic, and surprisingly emotional. She’s got that rare kind of stage presence where you feel like she’s performing for you, not just at you.
And at ALB, where the crowds are close enough to feel personal but still buzzing enough to dance your heart out? Perfect fit.