James Bay
02 Institute 12/01/22
Birmingham UK
Claire H. Photographer
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Live Review
Following the release of his third studio album Leap, James Bay embarked on a tour around the UK and Europe - making a stop in Birmingham to deliver one enthralling performance at the city’s very own iconic 02 Institute.
Joining Bay on the road was his good friend in Pittsburgh based singer songwriter, Kevin Garrett. Not many artists have the privilege of saying that they wrote a song for Beyoncé, yet Garrett declared his involvement in Pray You Catch Me from the award winning Lemonade - because let’s face it who wouldn’t slip that into conversation at any given opportunity? He performed his own rendition of the hit, putting his own stamp firmly on the track he was so clearly proud and fond of. This being, just one of several covers throughout his 45 minute long set. Garrett’s powerhouse vocals shone during covers ranging from Billie Eilish to Fleetwood Mac, perfectly appropriate choices catered to all ages of those in attendance. However, it was his cover of Goo Goo Dolls hit Iris that sent the crowd into a frenzy, transforming the iconic Birmingham venue into one giant sing-a-long. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable set from Kevin Garrett who stole the hearts of Birmingham whilst warming up the stage ahead of the evening’s headliner.
After a quick set up change over, it was time for the main man himself. Launching into mammoth hit single Best Fake Smile, Bay strolled onstage, guitar in hand and joined his fellow touring members in playing an extended instrumental intro to the track, before kicking things off in style. Speaking of style, the Let It Go hitmaker was noticeably sporting his signature look, a fedora paired with some heeled boots. With album Leap leaping (literally) into the charts, these run of dates provided fans the opportunity to witness the tracks translate into a live setting for the first time. Unsurprisingly, new singles One Life and Give Me the Reason earned their place within the nineteen song setlist - both receiving huge cheers and joyous sing-a-longs. Half way through the night, Bay took a moment to honour one of his biggest inspirations who recently passed away. This was of course non other than the wonderful Christine McVie. The audience watched in awe as James delivered a beautiful rendition of Songbird - with not a dry eye in the house. Save Your Love saw Garrett join James on stage for the ultimate guitar session jam, much to the crowd’s delight.
The set temporarily came to an end with Craving being Jame’s “last song” of the night. However, as expected, the fedora wearing rocker emerged onto the stage to perform two final tracks of the evening. 2014 hit releases Scars, and the number that catapulted his career, Hold Back the River were the perfect choice at closing one incredible and intimate evening with the legendary James Bay.
Setlist
Best Fake Smile
Endless Summer Nights
Give Me the Reason
If You Ever Want to Be in Love
Wanderlust
Peer Pressure
Us
Let It Go
One Life
Songbird
Silent Love
Need the Sun to Break
Save Your Love
Fade Out
When We Were on Fire
Pink Lemonade
Craving
Scars
Hold Back the River
