Back on Australian soil for the first time in years, English singer-songwriter James Blunt captivated the Adelaide Entertainment Centre with a humour laden, emphatic performance.
Touring in support of his seventh studio album, 'Who We Used To Be', Blunt's show blended charm, hilarious self-deprecation and musicianship into a standout evening of powerfully emotive storytelling and song (25 November).The opening act, Pierce Brothers kept show-goers enthralled with a rollicking set of folk-filled indie balladry, a la Mumford & Sons with a bit more bite.
The multi-instrumental duo, whilst accompanied by keys, utilised mandolins, acoustic drums, guitar and didgeridoo to creative effect, turning their typical forms into percussive devices, while textured vocal layers harmonised to gigantic choral effect.
Their set – powerful, affable and not without a rocking edge – saw the brothers bring cheer to the Adelaide crowd, with closing number 'Golden Times' a standout of the evening.
Pierce Brothers - image © JakeyVass Media
Adelaide fans were in for a treat as James Blunt and his band then delivered a meticulously curated set list that spanned his 20-year career.
From the opening strums of 'Beside You', the show's energy was off to a roaring start as Blunt burst onstage cajoling the crowd onto its feet with ease. The 2023 single, brimming with emotional resonance, served as a fitting entry point into Blunt's latest chapter.
For a performer who first rose to fame on the back of delicate ballads like 'Goodbye My Lover' and 'You're Beautiful', the evolution of his songwriting and persona was on full display. Far from resting on his laurels, Blunt demonstrated his prowess as a dynamic and versatile performer by way of multi-instrumentalism and command of his long standing backing band.
Tracks from 'Who We Used To Be', including 'Saving A Life', slotted seamlessly alongside the nostalgic anthems fans came to hear, like 'Wisemen' and 'Carry You Home'.
James Blunt - image © JakeyVass Media
The stripped-back production emphasised the artistry of Blunt and his tight-knit band. Without the distraction of over-the-top visuals, the focus remained squarely on the music, with each note ringing clear and true along with his remarkably textural voice.
The understated arrangement also left plenty of room for Blunt's charismatic personality to shine through. Especially by way of his endearingly personal accounts of friendships and loved ones lost, such as his poignant tribute to late friend Carrie Fisher in 'Dark Thought'.
As a live performer, Blunt's sharp wit and self-deprecating humour are as much a part of the experience as his songs. Whether joking about having "already got your money" in response to requests for older material, or teasing the audience with his quintessentially British charm, he kept the crowd entertained between songs, despite hilariously calling them out: "I know why you're at a James Blunt concert, even though you're all smiling, you like miserable songs."
One of the evening's most heart-wrenching moments came during 'Monsters'. A tribute to Blunt's father, the song silenced the crowd, its emotional weight hanging heavy in the air. The vulnerability on display was a reminder of Blunt's ability to connect deeply with his audience, even in a venue as expansive as the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
James Blunt - image © JakeyVass Media
In stark contrast, tracks like 'Stay The Night' and 'Bonfire Heart' injected a celebratory energy into the room, with fans singing along at the tops of their lungs. Blunt's skill in balancing these emotional highs and lows ensured the set felt vibrant and varied throughout.
The band itself deserves immense credit for elevating the performance. Each member played with precision and purpose, crafting a soundscape that allowed Blunt's vocals to shine; a voice totally embodying a raw, visceral emotion in every breath.
The chemistry onstage too was evident, with the musicians supporting Blunt's every move, whether he was leading the crowd in a light-hearted Mexican wave or delivering a stirring piano ballad, with Blunt even ascending the top section of his standup piano, riding it like a surfer would a wave.
Closing the evening with the anthemic '1973', Blunt left the Adelaide audience in high spirits. The collective sense of joy and connection as the final notes faded out was a testament to his enduring appeal.
James Blunt - image © JakeyVass Media
By hearing music that was so fundamental to many memories of 20 years past, it provided an interesting moment for reflection on not just the astonishing timelessness and quality of the artist's songwriting talent, but also the new meanings and neural connections made with and through his music.
With a career that continues to evolve, Blunt has firmly cemented his place as an engaging and utterly charming voice of his generation.
More photos from the concert.
