'I saw The Amy Winehouse Band and it's the closest thing to being back at her concerts'

The Amy Winehouse band offers a unique experience as members of the iconic singer's former band come together to put on a standout show

The legend of Amy Winehouse lives on 13 years after her tragic death aged just 27.

The musician skyrocketed to fame after the release of her critically acclaimed multiple Grammy Award-winning album Back to Black in 2006. However, her issues were highly publicised prior to her untimely passing.

Now, with many tribute acts still entertaining her large fanbase across the globe, there is one group that is able to stand above them all - The Amy Winehouse Band. While all eyes are on powerful vocalist Bronte Shande as she takes centre stage with her impressive renditions of Amy's classics, she is surrounded by members of Amy's former band. Among them are Amy's close pal and confidant Dale Davis, who is the group's Managing Director as well as playing bass guitar.

Dale, who worked with the star for eight years, helped reunite the group in 2016 and previously admitted to the Mirror he wasn't looking for a front singer to be a carbon copy of the Back To Black songstress. Instead, he was hoping to find a front person to showcase the art of the late singer - and in Bronte he has certainly found just that.

From the very first note of Tears Dry On Their Own, to the last encore - Valerie, of course - the group encapsulated what it must have felt like to have witnessed the extremely talented Amy Winehouse in concert. While Bronte is clearly a fantastic musician in her own right, her great range of vocals gripped the audience and allowed them to feel the authentic spirit of Amy throughout.

Among the highlights on the night were Amy's huge hits such as Back to Black, Love Is A Losing Game and Rehab. To add in the Christmas spirit, there was even a note-perfect offering of I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus in the Londoner's unique style.

An extra treat for the Sunderland crowd to embrace was the energetic performance of Ade Omotayo. Ade, who had provided backing vocals for Amy during her career, offered huge stage presence and a bubbly personality that was infectious. Hs dance moves also brought loud cheers throughout as he dazzled alongside Bronte.

Ade also showcased his soulful voice as he stunned the 800-capacity crowd with an exceptional cover of one of Amy's favourite tunes, More Than You'll Ever Know.

It was my first time seeing the group perform and the setting for it couldn't have been more perfect. Nestled in Sunderland's city centre was this hidden gem. While The Fire Station complex itself and its unique Engine Room bar has stood prominently in the area's Cultural Quarter for the last three years, its auditorium appears to be a pleasant secret. With the likes of Strictly winner Chris McCausland, Spandau Ballet's Martin Kemp, and even World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst all already in the diary for future performances, there's sure to be many more jam-packed nights.

For the Amy Winehouse Band, the venue gave for the ideal backdrop for an intimate feel in which to perfectly celebrate the icon. There also has to be a special shout out for the newly-acquired Fire Truck. The pizzas were a hit for those looking for a quick and tasty bite away from the already top-notch food offerings.

Sunderland is without doubt an up and coming music city, and The Fire Station venue is clearly at the heart of the quickly growing vibe. It's safe to say the Amy Winehouse Band went down well with its amazing performance and would surely be welcomed back with open arms. I, for one, would definitely be back.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.