BRADLEY SIMPSON – THE GARAGE GLASGOW -A LIVE REVIEW – 12/11/24

When Bradley Simpson, also known as the frontman of the British boyband “The Vamps” , took the stage at The Garage for his first ever headline show in Glasgow in support of his new solo project, the room buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The energy was palpable as fans eagerly awaited the chance to see their childhood sweetheart in a way more intimate setting, compared to the massive arenas The Vamps’ are known to sell out.

From the moment he stepped into the spotlight, Bradley commanded the stage with an infectious enthusiasm that immediately drew the audience in, combined with his cheeky personality we’re all used to seeing with The Vamps! His raw passion for performing was evident in every single note delivered and every word spoken, creating a connection between the audience and himself fans never thought they’d be able to experience outside of arenas!

Prior to his performance, the crowd were treated to an outstanding opening act by the charming Annika Bennett, a fantastic upcoming artist who recently supported US superstar Sabrina Carpenter’s emails I can’t send tour in 2023, making this her second stop back in Glasgow!

Annika’s performance was a captivating mixture of emotive originals and unexpected covers, notably a heartfelt rendition of Troye Sivan’s “One of Your Girls,” which set the atmosphere for the rest of the evening. Her soft, expressive voice and authentic stage presence captivated the crowded audience, clearly winning many new admirers by the conclusion of her performance with a massive smile on her face.

When Bradley eventually took the stage just before 9pm, the energy in the room reached a fever pitch. The first notes of “Getting Clear” filled the venue, and Bradley’s voice, powerful yet full of nuance, instantly commanded attention. Each song felt like a window into his musical journey, inviting fans into a blend of personal stories, raw emotion, and musical passion.

Bradley’s charisma was magnetic, with every move and every note reflecting his dedication to delivering an unforgettable performance. The setlist included a mix of fresh material and fan favourites. The high-energy tracks “Always Like This” and “Daisies” kept the entire audience moving, while the less intense tracks “Holy Grail” revealed a much more introspective side.

A personal favourite moment came from Bradley’s cover of Chappell Roan’s “HOT TO GO!” , which immediately filled the crowd with energy, giving the performance a sense of excitement and spontaneity as they all performed the viral choreo that took the internet by storm!

A notable moment occurred during “Daisies,” when the audience shocked Bradley by showering him with fresh daisies, which left him obviously moved. The spectators’ voices were nearly as loud as the speakers as they sang along, resulting in a chorus of sound that filled the entire venue and could have probably been heard outside! Bradley paused to honour the occasion, thanking the audience with a beaming smile, clearly moved by the fans’ devotion and love.

The intimate setup at The Garage enhanced Bradley’s connection with his fans. Between songs, he paused to share personal stories and thank the crowd for their support, creating a warm, conversational vibe that made the concert feel deeply personal. The minimalist stage design with a curtain and glittery letters spelling out his name was complemented by a clever lighting arrangement, with soft, moody hues during emotional moments and vibrant bursts for the high-energy tracks, all adding depth to each song’s mood.

Bradley’s commitment to self-expression and mental health advocacy was evident throughout the performance. His openness and honesty struck a deep chord with fans, and he used his platform to promote acceptance and individuality. The inclusive spirit in the room was palpable, with fans cheering and waving banners as Bradley spoke candidly about embracing authenticity and self-love.

In a nutshell, Bradley Simpson’s headline show at The Garage was more than just a musical performance; it was a celebration of personal growth, connection, and shared experiences. Despite it being only an hour-long set, Bradley and his band absolutely killed it, and every single performance was spectacular to watch! From Annika Bennett’s soulful opening performance to Bradley’s thunderous encore, the evening demonstrated the power of music and the relationships it builds. For those who were there, it was a night to remember—the perfect combination of nostalgia, intensity, and emotional depth that only an artist like Bradley can provide.