Gig review: Melanie C at Project House, Leeds
The artist once known as ‘Sporty Spice’ is joined by one of her former bandmates at her album launch show.
Crash Records’ album launch shows seem to grow in scale and anticipation every time, and the unveiling of Melanie C’s new record Sweat was no exception.
Earlier in the day, fans had already packed out the shop, forming long queues to grab a copy, and many of those same dedicated supporters reassembled outside Project House for this special early-evening performance.
These launches are typically stripped-back affairs with no support acts, but that’s part of the charm, intimate, fan-focused, and offering access to major artists in a way that feels genuinely special.
Despite a long day of waiting, the crowd buzzed with energy, fuelled further by a pre-gig DJ spinning dancefloor classics that had everyone singing along. When the lights dimmed and the DJ booth was cleared, excitement surged. A ripple of whispers spread as Mel B appeared in the guest area, delighting fans and adding an extra dose of Spice Girl nostalgia to the night.
As the band quietly took their positions behind drums and keyboards, the stage design came into focus. A striking backdrop of Melanie C in a bold bodysuit mirrored the Sweat album artwork, complete with a prominent QR code teasing access to a deluxe edition. It was a simple but effective set-up, allowing the music to remain front and centre while still tying the performance visually to the new era.
The set itself balanced fresh material with well-loved classics. Opening with the pulsing title track SweatMelanie C immediately established the album’s slick, dance-driven tone. New songs like What Could Possibly Go Wrong and Attitude slotted seamlessly alongside older hits, while Never Be The Same Again and Northern Star drew huge singalongs.
The defining moment of the night came with the irresistible sense of “will she, won’t she?” hanging over Spice Up Your Life. The song has appeared on previous album launch shows. Melanie began by playfully coaching the audience to take on the other Spice Girls’ parts, and they rose to the challenge brilliantly, at least at first.
As anticipation peaked, Mel B finally strode onto the stage, sending the crowd into meltdown. Voices faltered in shock before the room quickly recovered, and together the duo launched into a joyous, high-energy rendition of the classic.
For a few minutes, time seemed to roll back, with the chemistry and affection between the two northern stars unmistakable. It was a genuinely euphoric moment that lifted an already fabulous entire show to euphoric new heights.
Interaction was warm and genuine throughout. Melanie C frequently addressed the crowd, acknowledging their loyalty and the effort many had made to be there all day. The intimate setting allowed for moments of connection often lost in larger venues, with fans hanging on every word as much as every note.
Overall, this was a triumphant album launch – part celebration, part exclusive preview, and entirely engaging. Sweat feels like a confident new chapter, and in a setting like Project House, it landed exactly as intended: up close, personal, and packed with joy.