Three days on, and the energy from Bradley Simpson’s headline show at the Engine Rooms still lingers in the air. In one of Southamptons most intimate yet electric venues, Simpson delivered a performance that felt as personal as it was powerful. Firmly establishing himself as a solo force to be reckoned with.
He took to the stage to a wall of screams from his devoted fans, a wave of sound that set the tone for the night. Wasting no time, Simpson kicked things off with the punchy and infectious “Getting Clear,” urging the crowd to get involved from the first beat. It worked, as hands flew up, lyrics were shouted back, and the show was in full swing within seconds.
The pace eased slightly with “Picasso,” a moody and reflective track that showcased Simpson’s growth as both a songwriter and performer. That emotional depth carried through into “Cry at the Moon,” as Simpson grappled with his guitar like an extension of his soul.
The heart of the set kept the momentum rolling. A vibrant performance of “Favourite Band” brought a wave of joy and nostalgia through the room, while “Always Like This” created a magical moment. As Simpson asked fans to light up the venue with their phone torches, the Engine Rooms glowed with hundreds of lights, an intimate, goosebump-inducing highlight of the night.
He closed the main set with “The Panic Years,” the tour’s title track and an emotional centrepiece of the show. Its reflective lyrics and slow-build energy made for a powerful closer. Leaving the audience in quiet awe before the inevitable demand for more.
The encore didn’t disappoint. The opening chords of “Daisies” sent the crowd into a frenzy, turning the venue into a giant singalong, with fans bouncing to every beat. Simpson wrapped up with “Carpet Burn,” a riotous, tongue-in-cheek banger that saw the night end on an ecstatic high.
Throughout the performance, Simpson’s connection with his audience was undeniable. With a voice stronger than ever and a solo catalogue already resonating deeply with fans, Bradley Simpson didn’t just play a show, he delivered a statement: this new era is his, and it’s only just beginning.
Support for the evening came from Nieve Ella, who opened the night with an incredible acoustic set that perfectly set the tone. Her stripped-back performance, raw vocals, and engaging stage presence won over the crowd from the very first song, proving she’s a rising talent to watch closely.
Words & Photos: Mark Butler
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