OPENING their four-week UK tour, Philadelphia’s Stylistics brought smooth and sophisticated soul music to a packed Pavilion.

Backed by a subtly superb six-piece American band, The Stylistics delivered their trademark love songs, featuring vocal harmonies topped with that distinctive creamy falsetto.

With simple yet stylishly tight choreography, the early hits flowed seamlessly – You’re A Big Girl Now, Stoned In Love With You, and Betcha By Golly Wow.

Including two original members, Herbie Murrell and Airrion Love, the Stylistics’ 40-year-old formula is irresistible – hooky melodies, gorgeous harmonies, and meaningful romantic lyrics.

Most of their material features slow, sensuous ballads (known as “gropers” or “midnight movers” in the music biz) including Break Up To Make Up, Listen To Your Heart And What It’s Saying, and You Are Everything.

Even the relatively up-tempo numbers – Sing Baby Sing and Rock ’n’ roll Baby – have a punchy sensuality.

The feel-good finale showcased Let’s Put It All Together and the Stylistics’ chart-topping anthem You Make Me Feel Brand New.

The encore was intimate and sophisticated, with The Stylistics perched casually on four stools at the front of the stage, singing and chatting endearingly before sending the joyful audience home with the rousing I Can’t Give You Anything But My Love.

As their name implies, this group exudes charisma, professionalism, and – above all – style.

The Stylistics play Fareham’s Ferneham Hall on Saturday, Eastleigh’s Concorde Club on November 28, and London’s 02 on November 29.