Emerging on stage bang on time, Elton John gave adoring fans crowding Floriana’s Granaries two hours and 40 minutes of masterclass piano playing.

In 2003, Elton John had promised to return within two years with his band, and although he did not quite fulfil this to the letter the crowd was thrilled to have him back, with percussionist Ray Cooper providing enough entertainment and theatrics on stage to make up for the band.

NnG Promotions’ decision to bring back Elton John for a second concert in Malta in seven years could be described as risky after his memorable one-man show.

But judging by the reaction of the 9,000-strong crowd after Sunday’s set, it was clear Sir Elton’s encore managed to win over the Maltese once again.

Wearing blue sunglasses embossed with the letters EJ, black pants, and a long jacket with tails emblazoned with the sun and the moon, Elton John gave arguably the best musical interpretation in Malta this year.

There were none of the trademark keyboard handstands he regularly pulled off during his glory days, but at 63, Elton John proved he was still a force to be reckoned with. And he was clearly enjoying every minute.

“Thank you for all your support throughout the years. You have made this so easy for me – you are a wonderful crowd,” Elton John said before singing his encore and flying out to Nice in the South of France on his private jet.

Elton John’s setlist provided a snapshot from his 40-year career, starting off with The One and closing off with Circle of Life from The Lion King soundtrack. He even treated the crowd to the song Sixty Years On from his 1970s self-titled album.

As expected, his greatest hits like Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me and Daniel won the biggest cheers of the evening, though the concert provided several moments of magic especially the piano introduction of Funeral for a Friend transposing into the classic song Tonight.

Ray Cooper was the surprise hit of the evening, with his performance in the second half of the concert injecting life and beat to Elton John’s melody.

Bennie and the Jets got the adulating crowd dancing in front of the stage, though some members of the audience were disappointed he missed out on classics like Candle in the Wind and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

But Sunday’s concert was a vivid reminder of Elton John’s extraordinary contribution of melodies to the rock scene.

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