Bradley Simpson performed at Leeds’ Beckett last night it was a masterclass in blending heartfelt intimacy with electrifying stage presence, leaving the near-capacity crowd buzzing. Fresh off his solo venture post-The Vamps, Simpson proved he’s carving a distinct path, with a setlist that leaned heavily into his new material while nodding to his roots. The 350-strong venue felt alive, though not sold out this hinted at the transition from boyband fame to solo stardom.
Kicking off with “Getting Clear,” Simpson’s soulful vocals cut through the room, setting a reflective tone. Tracks like “Picasso” and “Cry At The Moon” showcased his knack for crafting earworms with emotional depth, their shimmering production translating effortlessly live. The crowd, a mix of longtime Vamps fans and newer converts, roared for “Almost” and “Not Us Anymore,” where Simpson’s raw delivery hit hardest. A standout moment was his acoustic rendition of “The Band’s Not Breaking Up,” performed in the crowd—a bold move that felt like a love letter to his fans, dispelling any Vamps breakup rumours with charm.
The setlist’s diversity shone through. “Favourite Band,” a duet with support act Nieve Ella, was a highlight, their chemistry sparking cheers. His cover of Kaiser Chiefs’ “Ruby” was a cheeky nod to the Leeds crowd, who sang along with hometown pride. “Always Like This” and “The Panic Years” brought high-energy anthems, while “Daisies” and “Carpet Burn” closed with introspective grit, showcasing his growth as a songwriter.
Nieve Ella’s opening set deserves its own praise. The rising indie-pop star warmed up the crowd with her ethereal vocals and confessional lyrics, tracks like “Fall So Fast” and “Big House” setting a dreamy yet relatable tone. Her brief return for “Favourite Band” felt like a natural fit, hinting at her potential to headline soon.
The production was minimal but effective—moody lighting and a tight backing band let Bradley Simpson and his charisma take center stage. If there’s a critique, it’s that the set felt short, leaving fans hungry for more. Still, Simpson’s ability to connect, whether through banter or stripped-back moments, made this a night to remember. Leeds got a glimpse of an artist hitting his stride, and it’s clear Bradley Simpson’s solo journey is one to watch.
Photo Copyright © Jo Forrest
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