Kylie Minogue review – a glorious celebration of pop perfection

Watching a live performance by Kylie Minogue is always comforting. Whether she's performing at big music festivals, large venues, or small clubs in Las Vegas, the 56-year-old pop legend is a seasoned professional who knows how to put on a show. However, the fact that she is so experienced doesn't take away from the magic of tonight's concert in Hyde Park. When she takes the stage in a stunning red vinyl jumpsuit and kicks off the show with the energetic title track from her latest album, Tension, the audience can feel the excitement in the air. They are pumped up and Kylie can sense it too. "Please don't make me cry," she says, wiping away tears. "We've only just begun."

She successfully delays stopping, and instead delivers an incredible performance filled with all her greatest songs. Kylie understands what her fans love to listen to, and although she includes a few newer tracks like her collaboration with Orville Peck on Midnight Ride and Hold On To Now from her Tension album, most of the setlist is a wonderful tribute to over 35 years of excellent pop music.

Innovative changes make the songs sound new: Come Into My World is transformed into a trance track with added intensity; Confide In Me becomes more dramatic with powerful percussion and enhanced vocals; and as Slow nears its end, the smooth synths are replaced by a powerful chorus with intense beats.

In the middle of the performance, Kylie stops to ask for song requests, singing bits of I Should Be So Lucky, 2 Hearts and Step Back In Time without music. Even though we are in a park filled with many people, this part of the show feels unexpectedly close and personal as she talks and jokes with the crowd.

With so many T-shirts featuring the song title available, there is no doubt that fans are eagerly awaiting to hear last year's unexpected hit Padam Padam. They are not let down, as Kylie confidently performs on stage with a big smile. "I am extremely happy," she joyfully exclaims.

It's difficult to say whether she's discussing her show tonight or reflecting on her longevity in the industry. Nevertheless, as she gazes at the audience with eyes full of emotion, it's clear that both aspects bring her a sense of satisfaction.