My last gig of the year, and I can’t think of a more refined, mellow, or chilled-out way to close out 2025 than seeing Melina Malone headline the Sugar Club.
Melina has, as I’ve described elsewhere, a smooth voice with just a hint of rasp — reminiscent of the amazing Sade. Add to that a fantastic stage presence, sashaying across the stage with ease, and it’s no surprise the Sugar Club was packed. And I do mean packed: not a seat left in the house, with the aisles jammed too! I won’t lie, that made my life a tad more difficult — but sure, what can you do?
I’ve seen Melina perform many times before, usually guesting with artists like Max Zaska or Danny Groenland, but never as a headliner. So tonight was an absolute delight. Striding onto the stage full of confidence and looking every bit the superstar, she captivated the audience from the very first note. Before long, people were making their way down to the front of the stage to boogie the night away.
As I sat back and watched, I couldn’t help thinking that Melina would be perfectly at home on the stage of the National Concert Hall, backed by an orchestra. Someone needs to make that happen.
Anyway, it’s the same old story — I’m not great with the words, so here are the pictures!
