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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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JAMES BAY
+ Merpire
@ Fremantle Prison, Perth,
14th March 2024
(Live Review)

Review and photos by Emily Cole (@emilykcole)

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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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James Bay’s long-awaited return to Perth unfolded at the hauntingly beautiful venue of Fremantle Prison, on the evening of March 14th. Six years have passed since the Brit last graced Australian shores, and the anticipation hung in the air as fans gathered to witness his awaited comeback.

James was accompanied by Melbourne based artist, Merpire for all his Australian shows.

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Merpire / Photo – @emilykcole

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Merpire took to the stage solo, with her guitar in hand as the sun was setting. Addressing the crowd with a playful demeanour, Merpire joked, “You’re so quiet and respectful – it’s like I’m playing in a library in the best way!” Her song “Dinosaur” gained approval from nearby spectators. Merpire treated the building crowds to her latest offering, “Fishing” which emerged as a standout in her set with its emotive lyrics. Before closing out her set Merpire played an acoustic take on Caroline Polachek’s “So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings”.

James Bay’s second Australian show of the tour was greeted by a large crowd of eager fans, sprawled across a mix of standing and seating areas. Bay took to the stage in his trademark wide-brimmed hat, wasting no time starting the evening with the infectious energy of “Best Fake Smile”. This kicked off the night of treating the audience to a mix of old, new and yet to be released music.

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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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As the night progressed Bay slowed the tempo with the heartfelt lyrics of “Us”. Before jumping into the next song, Bay shared a funny anecdote about hearing his song, “Peer Pressure” echoing from a bathroom, which prompted him to add it to the nights setlist. Whilst “Fade Out” picked the beat back up and had the audience grooving along.

Throughout the night, Bay seamlessly transitioned between guitars. Strumming along with his bandmates in perfect synchrony. Bay and his guitar were accompanied by an additional guitar, drums, bass, and keys.

Reflecting on the significance of Australia in his musical journey, Bay expressed gratitude for the country’s support, stating that Australia was one of the first places in the world that his music started charting, which always makes the Australian shows special to him.

The audience erupted in instant cheers at the opening note of fan favourite “Let It Go”, as a sea of phones lifted to capture the moment.Among the well-known songs, Bay unveiled a glimpse of the future with the unreleased track “Hope” which had the audience clapping along by the end.

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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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A mesmerizing instrumental provided a moment of respite before Bay’s vocals once again took centre stage for the remainder of the set. With a promise of return hanging in the air, Bay bid farewell to the audience, vowing to “see you one day again, I promise”.

Returning for an encore amidst a chorus of cheers, Bay returned to the stage with “Scars,” bringing the audience to an emotional halt. Bay finished off the night with the lively closing number of his chart topper “Hold Back The River” as the audience clapped along in glee.

In a performance spanning 1.5 hours, His energetic performance led even the seated audience to be on their feet majority of the night. Bay’s smooth vocals and impressive guitar work captivated audiences, leaving an impression long after the final chord had faded.

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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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Check out Emily Cole’s (@emilykcole) full gallery of this event HERE

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Keep up with JAMES BAY
Facebook – Website

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James Bay / Photo – @emilykcole

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Press Release 12th December 2023 (below) HERE

JAMES BAY
announces Headline Shows
around Australia in 2024

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JAMES BAY
TOUR DATES 2024

Tuesday 12th March
Enmore Theatre, Sydney NSW

Thursday 14th March
Fremantle Prison, Fremantle WA

Wednesday 20th March
Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra ACT

Friday 22nd March
The Star Theatre, Gold Coast QLD

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AMNPLIFY – DB