James Bay at Brixton Academy

On Friday night the immensely talented James Bay made a triumphant return to London (for his third show in the capital this year) as part of his 2022 Leap tour. Bay is currently promoting his third and latest album, entitled Leap, which was released in July. 

Lighting up the Brixton Academy in flashing black-and-white lights, the artist appeared on stage, opening with Best Fake Smile off 2014 album Chaos and the Calm and setting the venue ablaze with his signature guitar riffs. 

Bay dazzled fans by performing some of his most beloved hit songs, including Peer Pressure (which he wrote with American singer-songwriter Julia Michaels), Let It Go (one of his most popular songs) and Us from 2018’s Electric Light. It was almost as if he cast a spell over the venue every time he opened his mouth; his angelic voice, paired with the suaveness of his guitar, filled the room, and the audience ate it up. 

One of the most treasured moments of the evening was when Bay took the time to sit down for an stripped-back, acoustic portion of the set, performing Songbird by Fleetwood Mac that he dedicated to the late Christine McVie, who tragically passed away earlier this week. It was such an extremely raw moment between the singer and his adoring fans, and a sentimental tribute to the great musician and songwriter. 

Bay ended his set with twangy tunes including When We Were on Fire and Pink Lemonade, which brought the entirety of Brixton Academy to their feet and was the perfect lead-up to the encore of the show: Scars and another top hit Hold Back the River sent the audience into a lively gospel chorus, ending the evening on a stellar note. One of the most “on-brand” James Bay gigs one could possibly get. 

Kirst Hubbard
Photos: Virginie Viche

For further information and future events visit James Bay’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Pink Lemonade here: