SAM RYDER: BOURNEMOUTH, UK
Sam Ryder with support from Charlotte Jane and Tors
at the O2 Academy in Bournemouth, UK
words and photos by Phoebe Reeks
On the penultimate night of his extensive UK tour, Sam Ryder took to the stage of the O2 Academy in Bournemouth to perform to a sold-out venue.
Opening the night was Hull-based singer-songwriter, Charlotte Jane. With her gentle sound, she warmed up the crowd nicely for the acts to follow. She interacted well with the audience, mentioning that she’d previously played at the venue in support of Newton Faulkner, and thanked Sam Ryder for having her on the tour and to the audience for listening. Songs performed were a cover of ‘Tennessee Whisky’, and a series of originals including ‘Nervous’ and ‘All My Life’, a heartfelt song written for her young nephew.
Devon-based trio, Tors continued to warm up the crowd. With a somewhat heavier sound than the previous act, their energy and stage presence brought a liveliness to the room. Tors were well received by the crowd, with emotive lyrics, warming harmonies, and catchy choruses. They performed a range of original songs, including ‘Empty Hands’, ‘Miracle’ and latest single from their new EP ‘Anything Can Happen’ a hopeful song, highlighting the importance of celebrating the tiny victories in life. The band thanked Sam Ryder for having them on the tour, and mentioned their upcoming UK tour this summer.
The venue was full of fans of all ages, highlighting Sam Ryder’s universal appeal. A series of ABBA hits got the crowd geared up before the lights dimmed and the crowd chanted Sam’s name until he bounded on stage adorned in a sparkly jumpsuit. Full of energy and ready to entertain his fans, he kicked off the set with ‘Somebody’ followed by ‘Without You’. Sam was joined on stage by two additional band members, and throughout the night, Sam picked up his guitar for some solos offering a more rockstar side to his performance.
Having released his debut album, There’s Nothing But Space, Man! in December 2022, Sam performed several songs off it, from more upbeat tracks such as ‘Put a Light on Me’ to stripped back ballads, ‘All the Way Over’ and ‘Deep Blue Doubt’ which show off Sam’s impressive vocal range. Amongst these songs, was new song ‘Mountain’ of which Sam taught the chorus to encourage crowd participation.
Nearing the end of his set, Sam performed a medley of covers of ‘You’ve Got the Love’, ‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’ and ‘Misery Business’. Throughout the evening, Sam interacted with his audience, encouraging them to sing, dance or sway. He thanked fans for their presence at the gig and their exchange of energy throughout the night, before performing ‘More’ and leaving the stage. Of course, Sam returned for an encore, consisting of ‘Lost In You’, followed by his breakthrough song ‘Space Man’ which had the crowd singing along throughout at the top of their voices.
It's hard to believe that a year ago, Sam Ryder was barely known and its clear to see he’s thriving from the success of his stand-out Eurovision performance last year. He clearly enjoys the energy felt from performing and there’s no sign of him slowing anytime soon.
Charlotte Jane
Tors
Sam ryder
