It is nearly 20 years since former University of Indianapolis football scholarship students turned colourful pop act The Hoosiers burst into the charts with their #5 charting debut single, Worried About Ray. With the subsequent album, A Trick To Life, claiming the #1 spot on the charts, it seemed certain that global stardom beckoned. However, when they found themselves hailed the Worst Band at the 2008 NME Awards (beating Panic! At The Disco, 30 Seconds To Mars, My Chemical Romance, and Fall Out Boy to the title),  and their sophomore album, The Illusion of Safety subsequently failed to set the charts on fire in the same way (although a #10 position is not to be sniffed at), they found themselves ditched by RCA, and a life as an independent act began. With six studio albums now under their belt, the duo have maintained a stable following over the years, but it has taken them a decade to return to Birmingham for show. That all changed with a sold performance at Birmingham's o2 Insititute 2.

Before the duo (and their two touring bandmates) took to the stage, the audience were thoroughly warmed up by HUNNY BUZZ. A slightly rockier leaning sound that the headline act, it was clear the group were loving every minute of their performance, and their enthusiasm was shared by a very appreciative audience. With repetitive lyrics that were easy to join in with, a sense of euphoria filled the space, and they were met with huge whoops as they delivered a blistering set.

With the bar set high, the band entered the stage after a spoken word intro about their name from their former coach. It's playful, it's light and it's funny. Which many would feel easily summarises the band that follows, but the set that ensues highlights that while known for their playful anthems, they are a group that offer real diversity in the sound and genuine depth in their lyrics.

Opening the show with the lead single (Sleeping With The Light On) of their latest album (Compassion), Irwin Sparkes is in fine voice, and his cartoonish movements only serve to amplify the audience's enjoyment. Not afraid to get up close and personal with the audience, he launches into the lead single from their sophomore album - Choices - and starts a wander through the audience to sing up close.

It is in the intimacy – whether on stage or off – that the group really excels. They may be playful in presentation, but their clever lyrics are sincerely heartfelt. They seek connection, and they want a world of love and compassion. Whether it is in their striking cover selections (Chappell Roan's Pink Pony Club is a true highlight), the perky pop of their early hits or their more recent, slightly more soulful moments, they deliver effortlessly and have the audience compelled from the very outset.

The Hoosiers may have been deemed at the outset of their career a novelty act and the worst band ever, but they have proved over time that they have real substance and true talent.