In dark times of viruses and war, Sam Fender is a reminder of the good that still exists in the world- he is a class act on and off the stage.
After what can only be described as an underwhelming warm-up act by the Goat Girl, the stage at the M&S Arena was set for one of the UK’s most talented artists.
Despite being a Geordie, Sam Fender was right at home from the moment he stepped on stage in front of a raucous Liverpool crowd.
The similarities between Geordies and Scousers shone through when he first addressed the crowd, just after playing Will We Talk.
After a sincere speech, he said: “Someone told me to appreciate every moment on tour,” a sentence that set the crowd into raptures.
Despite being so early on in his concert, the connection between the audience and Sam Fender was infectious.
As the concert continued, Sam played through some of his new songs from the album Seventeen Going Under.
Whilst the audience wasn’t as loud during this period, that is a sign of a well-executed performance.
There needs to be a mid-stage lull because it builds up anticipation for the well-known big hitters, whilst also giving more casual fans a chance to appreciate his array of musical talent.
This was highlighted later when he beautifully played the piano to ‘Spit of You’, a song from his new album which is about a boy’s relationship with his dad.
Whilst he performed the song brilliantly, the crowd could visualise his relationship with his dad through the lovely collage of photos from his childhood that appeared on the big screen.
His vocals were incredible throughout as he showcased his range from low to high pitch whilst always staying in tune.
This came to the forefront when he played my personal favourite song of the night, ‘Play God’, from his first album.
The song began with an effective dimming of the lights alongside the guitar solo that the song opens with.
What followed was pure musical talent and a perfectly constructed performance.
What struck me most about this song though, was an unexpected break during it as Sam noticed trouble in the crowd.
His calm and well and assertive approach to this, making sure everyone was fine and that a special night wouldn’t be ruined by a few idiots, highlighted the measure of the man.
The concert may have finished in a predictable fashion as he sang Seventeen Going Under, his big new single, before ending with Hypersonic Missiles, a fan favourite.
Yet, as he had done all night, he executed both with care and class. A fitting end to a memorable night in Liverpool.
♦♦♦♦
