There is not one artist that can go to the extreme lengths of extravagance yet achieve a clamour of interest, but for Sir Elton John it is a natural concept that has driven the star to more than 40 years in the musical limelight.

Showcasing his talents to a grand scale audience at the Charlton Athletic football club, the red card was abandoned as one of the most successful pop stars took the stage. The pitch decked out with chairs and every wing section compacted with rearing heads, Elton marched on board; poised at his piano as he opens his sequel to the quaint single 'Benny'-sparking a joyous vibe.

Always one to dress to impress, the fashionista donned a piercing red silky shirt accompanied by matching trousers; smartened with a sharp black tail jacket emblazoned 'warning fire' conducive to the heat of music that was yet to propel.

Although his media spotlight has been one tainted by his impulsive and outspoken comments, Elton guarded his tone in a low key manner just giving a brief introduction for his songs and thanking the receptive crowd. As words are exchanged Sir Elton meticulously astounds the throng with the classic hits, 'Rocket Man' and 'I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues'.

In the realm of his 70's sound, Elton also gears the audience to more of his latest tracks; 'Believe' and the country-esque number 'Turn The Lights Out When You Leave'. Each segment was conjointly mirrored by their music videos screened on the plasma screens. Adding more visual to the set was a hulking backdrop of psychedelic graphics with Elton's name highlighted in bold.

It was not only Sir Elton's diamond encrusted crucifix that dazzled the crowd but his empowering vocals. When seeing Elton live you are in sheer awe by his core talent and heavy vocals. With no flaws Elton glides through every word and track -a notable feat as he re -visits the tracks, 'Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word' and 'Sacrifice'.

With his every song greeted to a standing ovation, the tracks, 'Are You Ready' and 'I'm Still Standing' were no exception. In a 2 ½ hour set with no intermission or breaks- just hours of entertainment and jive, Elton took a pause to individually commend his band-Davey Johnstone, Guy Babylon, Bob Birch, John Mahon and Nigel Olsson.

As the night drew to an end, unfortunately there was no extra time on the pitch but an encore that suffice all taste buds- 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me' provoked the sentimental to tears and the sun lovers to irony as the night befalls.