Melbourne showed their immense love by welcoming Grammy-award winning soul artist, Leon Bridges, with open arms and a standing ovation at Hamer Hall over the dusk-end of last week.
Returning for his fifth time to Australia, Leon Bridges brings together ‘The Boundless Tour’ which captures the intimacy of soul music while also twisting together blues and rock elements that get the crowd moving in their seats.
Yet with an entirely seated venue, Bridges still manages to involve the audience, going as far as getting fans to jump out of their seats and dance down the aisles toward the stage.
Check out Melbourne’s most comprehensive gig guide here.
“My life is yours, Leon,” screams a fan.
Behind an impressive discography that includes features from John Mayer, Diplo, Kacey Musgraves and Khruangbin, Bridges introduces a new collection of songs to his live performance from his critically-acclaimed 2021 album, ‘Gold Diggers Sound’, while also sprinkling some fan favourites like ‘Texas Sun’, ‘Beyond’ and ‘River’.
The confidence and charisma exude from Bridges’ presence on stage, but it’s reinforced by the amount of musical talent he and his band share.
Bridges shares the spotlight alongside his band, with each member having their own moment in front of the crowd, whether that be a saxophone solo, or a dance – the fun was constant and neverending.
It’s clear to see that Bridges cares about the show, the performance is cinematic with instrumental interludes blending each song together, alongside detailed lighting showing the audience the focus X of the moment. It feels as if every member of the show, whether that’s a part of the band or behind the scenes; has their own time to shine.
However, that being said, the live vocal performances are undoubtedly one of the most memorable highlights of the show, Bridges embraces his songwriting and executes it with his bright and raspy soul voice that can’t be faulted. When combined with the raw talent of his backup singers from Brittni Jessie and Brandon Marcel, you feel a heavenly pad-like trio of voices fill the venue which simply can’t be replicated in a recorded piece.
For those who are fans of a reminiscent heavy blues and soul sound, but haven’t heard of Leon Bridges, it’s safe to say you’ll soon be a lifelong fan after seeing him live.
Leon Bridges concludes his sold-out Australian tour this week with his debut Sydney Opera House performances, join the waitlist here.
