Packed with pop, punch and passion, The Puppini Sisters took the Epstein Theatre in Liverpool by storm as they embarked on a night of pure musical perfection.
Firstly, the vintage décor and set up of the Epstein loaned itself perfectly to the retro vibes of the talented sisters, and the inclusion of a uniquely talented warm up act only further cemented this atmosphere.
17-year old Hollie Stephenson began the night with her 3-piece band, showcasing a collection of original songs which were soulful and full of passion. The luscious low tones used in her songs were extremely powerful and her control over her vocal range was very impressive. Whilst I sensed a level of maturity through her voice and storytelling, I do believe that her performance lacked true conviction and I believe that with a little more on-stage confidence, this young performer could be a force to be reckoned with in the industry. 
However, Stephenson was successful in her job of engaging the crowd, and once the Puppini Sisters took to the stage, they had the audience hanging on their every note. Glamorous and gorgeously dressed in pom-poms, this talented trio made their musical mark on International Women’s Day as they performed a whole host of songs that had both men and women clapping and singing along all night. It was in their rendition of ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ that I felt the overwhelming sense of ‘girl power’ and their adaptation of the famous tune truly demonstrated their grasp of musicality and creativity.
Another tribute paid throughout the night was to the late David Bowie, and the sisters performed a wonderfully innovative interpretation of ‘Changes’ that left me with a small lump in my throat. However, they also performed original songs written by 2/3 of the group, Marcella Puppini and Kate Mullins. A particular favourite of mine was the ‘Vocal Ease’ song which represented barbershop at its very best. These ladies were note perfect throughout the entire show and the close-knit harmonies were faultless in every single song.
As the Sisters were celebrating their 12th anniversary as a band, I found it very touching that they had invited the other original member, Rosanna Schura, to join them on this tour to thank her for her contributions to their music. This ‘original red-head’ had a sensational voice and It was in her individual performance of ‘A Case of you’ by Joni Mitchell that you could literally hear a pin-drop as she left the audience in awe of her beautiful and elegant singing voice.
The trio triumphed in their adaptations of such highly-recognised songs such as, ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’, ‘Mr Sandman’ and ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’, yet they also catered to a current pop-culture audience as they put their spin on songs such as ‘Dear Future Husband’ by Meghan Trainor and ‘Bills, Bills, Bills’ by Destiny’s Child. The amalgamation of classic barbershop jazz with modern-day hip/hop was remarkable and hugely entertaining. Performed alongside an outrageously talented band, the Sisters shone both vocally and instrumentally as they played their individual instruments that only enhanced the performance for me as an audience member. Is there anything these girls can’t do?
Finished with a hint of red lipstick and an array of pin-curls, an evening with The Puppini Sisters is one I won’t be forgetting any time soon. Their melodious contribution to ‘International Woman’s Day’ was beautiful, creative and ‘scatting’ marvelous!
Review Date: 8th March 2016
Reviewed By: Lauren Waine
