Rag'n'Bone Man's return to Australia in 2025 was a much-anticipated event for fans, as it marked his first tour down under since 2018.
Known for his distinctive blend of blues, hip hop, and soul, and of course, that incredible deep baritone that's made him a worldwide sensation, this concert was proof to why he's become a staple in the global music scene. Adelaide's Hindley Street Music Halll hosted a packed crowd (25 April), and as soon as Rag'n'Bone Man stepped onto the stage, the audience was hooked.The night began with the warm and incredibly talented Amelie Farren. I hadn't heard much about her prior, but she made an immediate impression. With her calming presence and crystal-clear voice, she effortlessly captivated the crowd.
Her set was a perfect warm-up for the evening, showcasing her ability to blend folk and indie styles with a soothing depth. By the time she wrapped up, I was definitely looking forward to hearing more from her in the future.
Amelie Farren - image © JakeyVass Media
Rory Graham (better known as Rag'n'Bone Man) wasted no time in letting us know he was here to deliver a powerful show. Opening with 'Lovers In A Past Life', it was clear from the first few notes we were in for something special.
The deep echo of his voice filled the room, and the raw emotion he put into each line immediately grabbed everyone's attention. From there, we (the crowd) were taken through a fantastic mix of his most loved hits and new material, making sure the audience was engaged from start to finish.
Songs like 'All You Ever Wanted', 'Rush Of Blood', and 'Grace' had the crowd moving, but it was 'Anywhere Away From Here' that took the night to another level. This song felt like a moment that belonged to everyone in the venue. As soon as the first chords hit, the atmosphere changed.
There was an emotional weight in the room that was impossible to ignore. People stood still, some wiping away tears, others just listening, completely immersed. The sincerity in Rag'n'Bone Man's voice made it clear this song meant just as much to him as it did to us. It was one of those rare moments where you're reminded of the power of live music.
Rag'n'Bone Man - image © JakeyVass Media
It wasn't just the music that made the night unforgettable, though. Rag'n'Bone Man's personality was on full display throughout the show. Between songs, he cracked jokes, had playful conversations with the crowd, and shared personal stories that made the evening feel more intimate.
You could tell this wasn't just another gig for him, he genuinely enjoyed being there, and that energy was infectious. His laid-back yet engaging approach made the show feel like a conversation with a long-time friend.
Another standout moment occurred when Rag'n'Bone Man introduced 'Iron', a song he wrote about how his children see him as a superhero. The moment he explained the backstory behind the song, the crowd was hooked. There's something so relatable about that when hearing an artist share something so personal, yet universal. It wasn't just a song, it became a shared experience between him and the crowd, and you could feel the entire room connect.
After the main set, the crowd awaited the encore, and Rag'n'Bone Man didn't disappoint. He stepped off stage, only to return moments later with a grin, joking about how we all knew he was coming back. It was a fun, playful exchange that brought a light-hearted energy to the encore.
The night ended on a high with 'Put A Little Hurt On Me' and 'Giant', two of his biggest anthems that had the entire venue on their feet, singing along.
Rag'n'Bone Man - image © JakeyVass Media
Rag'n'Bone Man delivered one of the most powerful and emotionally-charged performances I've ever seen. This wasn't just a concert, it was a chance to witness an artist at the top of his game, connecting with the crowd on a personal level, and creating an experience that felt intimate despite being performed to a full venue.
From his soaring vocals to his genuine, heartfelt stories, he made sure everyone left feeling like they'd shared something special. His performance was proof why he's not only a Grammy Award-winning artist, but also a true talent who continues to break barriers and leave a lasting impact on everyone who hears him live.
It was a night filled with music, emotion, and unforgettable moments. I walked into that venue excited, but I left feeling moved and deeply grateful to have experienced a show from someone who's truly an artist in every sense of the word.
- written by Jake Vassallo
More photos from the concert.
