Rihanna triumphs in live London return

Rihanna made her live return in London last night (16.11.09) – her first full concert since she was assaulted by ex-boyfriend Chris Brown in February.

The singer debuted tracks from her forthcoming album 'Rated R', including 'Wait Your Turn' and 'Hard', and was joined on stage by rapper Jay-Z for 'Run This Town' and 'Umbrella'.

The 45-minute show at the 02 Academy Brixton was attended by music industry guests and competition winners, but also broadcast live across the internet on the Nokia website.

A guest at the concert told BANG Showbiz: "She may have been away for nine months, but she has certainly not lost anything when it comes to her voice. She sounded incredible, hit every note and completely owned the stage.

"She also had two backing dancers dressed in hijabs. She pulled off some very sexy moves – she even grabbed a mannequin's crotch at one point!"

Dressed in a provocative leotard and sporting a shock of dyed blonde hair, Rihanna was backed by a live band, showcasing a new, more rock orientated sound for her new LP.

The 21-year-old pop star recently revealed she sought solace in the recording studio following the vicious assault by Chris - which left her battered and bruised and resulted in Chris being sentenced to six months of community service, 12 months of domestic violence counselling and five years probation.

She said: "When I was given time off in March it was a little crazy. Being at home was driving me mad.

"I couldn't go anywhere. It was, like, 'Look at the poor victim!' So I called my label and said, 'I'm ready.' "

Footage from the show can be seen at www.nokia.com/rihanna