Review: RNCM Session Orchestra with Tim Burgess and Helen O’Hara is ‘a joyful evening of classics’

Tim Burgess, alongside the exceptional Helen O’Hara and the RNCM Session Orchestra, delved into his extensive catalogue, reshaping familiar songs into something fresh, expansive, and thrillingly unpredictable.

Over two captivating hours, orchestral arrangements breathed new life into indie anthems, and dexterous musicianship transformed nostalgia into something superb.

Tim Burgess and Helen O’Hara

Burgess, ever the innovator, reimagined a setlist spanning his storied career, giving Charlatans classics like “The Only One I Know,” (dedicated to Gary Neville with shall we say, mixed responses) “North Country Boy,” and “One to Another” a fresh orchestral vibrancy. North Country Boy was completely unrecognisable, taking on a darker edge with a key change.

His solo material also shone in this setting, infused with a grandeur that brought new layers of emotion to his deeply personal songwriting. And then there were the moments of sheer, unfiltered joy—the Dexys tributes that had the audience on their feet, reveling in the power of music to transport and transform.

The wonderful Helen O’Hara

Helen O’Hara’s violin work was absolutely marvellous.  She weaved melodies that soared and swooped through the orchestral arrangements.

Whether lending haunting beauty to Burgess’ solo material or stepping into the spotlight for Dexys classics, she brought an undeniable magic that elevated the entire performance.

Her emotive presence on “Because of You” and “Let’s Get This Straight From The Start” was spine-tingling—moments that felt almost sacred in their intensity.

The unique interplay between the orchestra and Tim’s stripped-back approach offered a fresh perspective on his music, lending a delicate, cinematic quality to tracks like “Impossible” and “Try Again Today.”

As the set progressed, the performance truly came to life. The moment Burgess stood up and engaged with the audience, the energy shifted dramatically.

The Charlatans’ anthems were given grand orchestral reworkings that retained their essence while adding new layers of depth. “The Only One I Know” became an orchestral singalong, while “North Country Boy,” “One to Another,” and “Weirdo” gained a new rhythmic intensity thanks to the well-integrated arrangements.

The RNCM percussionists and cellists in particular, radiated joy, clearly relishing their chance to reinterpret these beloved tracks.

One standout moment was “Try Again Today,” where Burgess and O’Hara left the stage, allowing the four backing vocalists to take centre stage, elevating the song with soaring harmonies.  Big shout out to the backing singers, who were brilliant and really brought life to the evening.

Dexys Midnight Runners

The Dexys Midnight Runners’s tracks were well-received, especially a rousing rendition of “Come On Eileen,” which had the entire theatre on its feet in an impromptu singalong.

Thankfully, the orchestra’s sheer brilliance kept the performance from veering into a mere nostalgia trip. The night was ultimately a resounding success.

The synergy between Burgess, O’Hara, and the RNCM Session Orchestra created something truly special—an adventurous fusion of rock and orchestral music that was both nostalgic and innovative.

It was an evening of reinvention, where classic songs were transformed rather than merely accompanied, and the evident joy on stage made it a privilege to witness.

You can find out more about what’s on at RNCM by clicking here