Leon Bridges has always been a master of reinvention – effortlessly weaving his honeyed vocals through soul, R&B and jazz influences, all while keeping a firm grip on his Texan roots. Rising to fame with his 2015 debut ‘Coming Home’, Bridges channels the warmth of ’60s soul through his music and Southern charm.

Entering his Sydney show, Bridges dressed in crisp white flares and a fitted denim jacket, looking every bit the modern soulman. The venue for the evening was transformed into a warm, Motown haven with draped curtains and golden lighting. Opening with ‘Migibima Moltual’ and ‘When a Man Cries’, Bridges wasted no time pulling the crowd into his velvety world.

Backed by a slick seven-piece band—including a percussionist, drummer, two guitarists (one doubling as a backing vocalist), a bassist, and an organist—Leon moves through an incredible 20-song set with barely a moment to catch his breath. Eight tracks from his latest album ‘Leon’, sat comfortably alongside six from his breakout ‘Coming Home’ and three from 2018’s ‘Good Thing’.

A particular highlight came with Panther City – an ode to his Fort Worth hometown with a special mention to Nintendo 64. Tracks like ‘Laredo’, ‘Texas Sun, and ‘Never Satisfied’ fit seamlessly into the set. Easing into a more intimate moment with the audience, where he stripped things back with ‘God Loves Everyone’ and ‘Lisa Sawyer’ – a soulful, deeply personal tribute to his mother.

Bridges continues to prove he’s more than a smooth soulful act. His music – though steeped in the past, feels effortlessly fresh.

A night in Leon’s world is a night well spent.

-Caitlin
When she’s not globetrotting Caitlin Martin loves to scope out Sydney’s hidden gems, with a camera and coffee in hand. Follow her adventures @caitlineliseeee

Image credit: Lachlan Douglas.
The Plus Ones were invited guests of Frontier Touring.