Music Critic Shira Crespi reviews Bradley Simpson’s intimate show in his hometown, Birmingham, where he played songs from his debut solo album, The Panic Years
On Sunday, March 2nd, Birmingham’s own Bradley Simpson, lead singer of The Vamps, delivered an intimate and heartfelt performance at Vault HMV in the city centre. The show marked the release of his debut solo album, The Panic Years, which dropped just days earlier. Now embarking on a tour spanning three countries and 17 locations, Simpson turned the small venue into a space filled with energy, nostalgia, and gratitude.
Bradley Simpson, widely known as the frontman of the Vamps, embraced the close knit nature of the evening. From the moment he stepped on stage, Simpson made the crowd feel at home, engaging with fans through jokes, conversation, and song requests. His warmth and obvious pleasure at returning to his Birmingham home set the groundwork for such a special performance. He expressed his immense appreciation for his fans in general and the response to his album, describing The Panic Years as a reflection of the past decade – one of chaos, growth, and change. The album, two and a half years in the making, explores themes of empowerment and love, resonating deeply with fans.
“His warmth and obvious pleasure at returning to his Birmingham home set the groundwork for such a special performance.
With an audience of over 150, the crowd was a mix of teenage fans, longtime supporters, mother-daughter duos, couples, and friends. Many wore merch from past shows, reinforcing how much his music means to them. The atmosphere was bright and energetic yet personal, with Simpson’s warmth making the performance feel more like a gathering than a concert.
The set opened with ‘Daisies’, a delicate and enchanting melody that instantly drew the audience in. With only his guitar and the soft glow of pink light casting him in silhouette, the moment felt very personal and emotive. From there, he transitioned into ‘Cry at the Moon’, Simpson sung songs full of romance and love, each lyric creating a story that resonated deeply with those in the audience.
“It reminded us that music is about more than simply love, but it is also about growth and transformation.
Then came the shift. Simpson introduced ‘Getting Clear’, a song about endurance and change. The mood, which had before been filled with romance took on a new energy, one of empowerment, of accepting life’s uncertainty. It reminded us that music is about more than simply love, but it is also about growth and transformation.
The evening’s final song came about in a unique way, Simpson allowed the audience to choose the final song. The response was unanimous, ‘Favourite Band’. As the first chords filled the room, the audience exploded in song. Simpson requested that the audience sang the high notes while he sang the low notes, and the harmony was mesmerising. It was a symphony of voices, demonstrating his intimate connection with people who had come to see him perform.
“It was a celebration of music, connection, and a decade-long journey that fans have been part of every step of the way.
Following the concert, fans had the chance to meet Simpson during a signing session, where he signed records, T-shirts, and other memorabilia brought from home or purchased that day. Virtually the entire audience queued for the opportunity, a testament to how much both he and his music mean to them. Encouraging song requests and sharing stories, Simpson made it clear how much playing in his hometown meant to him, even having his parents in the crowd. By the end of the set, it was evident – this wasn’t just a show. It was a celebration of music, connection, and a decade-long journey that fans have been part of every step of the way.
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