Soulful Nights: Rag’n’Bone Man Live at O2 Academy Brixton

Review and photos by Mark Thompson

22 November 2024

The O2 Academy Brixton was the place to be for an unforgettable evening of soulful sounds and electrifying performances. With a stellar lineup, Rag’n’Bone Man’s concert proved to be a celebration of talent, atmosphere, and connection.

Opening the night, UK-based indie-pop singer-songwriter Jon Poppii charmed the audience with his multifaceted skills, juggling a loop machine, keyboard, and guitar. His performance blended crisp beats with his soft, peaceful vocals, creating a relaxed yet captivating vibe. The crowd responded warmly, erupting into a cheer as he wrapped up his set. It was an intimate and uplifting start to the night

Next up was Kymara, a Brighton-based trio with roots in the Netherlands, delivering a stripped-back mix of vocals and guitar. Their refreshing fusion of R&B and soul left a lasting impression. The lead singer’s powerful yet emotive delivery captivated the audience, creating a tranquil and moving mid-section of the night.

The headline act, Rag’n’Bone Man, took to the stage amidst a wave of electrifying anticipation, the cheers from the crowd reverberating through the O2 Academy Brixton. From the first note of The Right Way, it was clear this was going to be a night to remember. The atmosphere in the venue was both warm and friendly, a testament to Rag’n’Bone Man’s ability to create a welcoming space while delivering music with raw, emotional intensity. His rich baritone voice filled the room, resonating deeply with fans and leaving no corner untouched by his powerful sound.

Each song in his set felt like a chapter in a well-crafted story, with tracks like Skin and Human acting as emotional high points. During these moments, the audience became an integral part of the performance, their voices blending seamlessly with his in a passionate chorus. These singalong moments transcended the typical concert experience, transforming it into a communal celebration of music and emotion.

Songs from his latest album, What Do You Believe In?, showcased his growth as an artist while staying true to the authenticity that fans adore. The title track and Chokehold stood out as particularly moving performances, their poignant lyrics and soaring melodies capturing the room’s attention. At the same time, older favorites like Grace and All You Ever Wanted brought waves of nostalgia, striking a perfect balance between the new and the familiar.

The stage production, while not overly flashy, complemented the evening’s tone perfectly. Subtle lighting shifts and a minimalistic set design allowed the focus to remain firmly on Rag’n’Bone Man’s voice and presence. His interaction with the crowd, from heartfelt thank-yous to brief anecdotes about the inspiration behind certain songs, further deepened the connection between performer and audience.

The night ended on a high note with a powerful encore that included Put a Little Hurt on Me, Rush of Blood, and the anthemic Giant. Each encore track served as a reminder of Rag’n’Bone Man’s exceptional ability to fuse soulful storytelling with irresistible melodies.

This was an evening of unforgettable performances, anchored by Rag’n’Bone Man’s extraordinary talent and undeniable charisma. The O2 Academy Brixton, with its intimate yet energetic vibe, proved the ideal venue for a night of soulful connection and musical brilliance. For fans of heartfelt lyrics, unmatched vocal talent, and music that touches the soul, this was a concert that set the gold standard.

Rag’n’Bone Man’s ability to bring people together through his music is a testament to why he remains one of the UK’s most compelling and beloved performers. As he continues to evolve, nights like this reinforce his place at the heart of the modern music scene.