LIVE REVIEW: Smoove & Turrell @ Salt Market Social, North Shields (01.01.26)

It’s a slightly unusual setting for Smoove & Turrell tonight as they emerge into 2026 with a raft of gigs and a statement of intent with their forthcoming Singles Tour.

At this RED Presents… show, the band are reduced to a minimal ‘band’ ensemble, tonight’s show at the Loading Bay at Salt Market Social – moved due to high demand – is a fairly laidback DJ and vocals-style outing. Casual in both set up and in production, they rely mostly on the vocals of John Turrell; tonight 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 works well, 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 & Turrell have always been well known, well thought of and well respected – here’s hoping 2026 and their Singles Tour builds that momentum further.