When releasing their fifth studio album, ‘Cherry Blossom’ in October 2020, British pop rock band The Vamps claimed to be entering a brand-new era of their musical careers. The band; consisting of members Bradley Simpson, James McVey, Connor Ball and Tristan Evans, are one of the best boybands still active in the UK with Cherry Blossom becoming the Vamps’ second number-one album in the UK. We were lucky enough to see this album finally hit the stage live as the boys made their way to Manchester and to the infamous Manchester Academy.
The night got off to an electrifying start as Rising alternative star Lauran Hibberd bounced onto the stage and got the night well and truly started. The 24-year-old had the Manchester crowd eating out of her hands as they quickly became familiar with her songs and sang them back to her in unison. The rock and roll-esque start brightened up the previously gloomy Manchester day and truly signified the start of the Cherry Blossom tour and that more was still to follow….
Next to grace the stage was Northern Irish singer songwriter JC Stewart who took a bit more of a relaxed approach to his set with a seemingly acoustic performance of some of his greatest hits that left the crowd wanting more even after his time was up! He performed some of his most well-known tracks like ‘Too Many Nights’ and ‘I Need You to Hate Me’ before giving the Mancunian crowd a sneak peek at a soon to be released track. His performance was simply incredible and I personally feel that it won’t be long before JC himself is headlining venues like the Manchester Academy with his flawless musical talents.
Then, as the lights darkened down and the screams rolled in, it was time for The Vamps to take centre stage and greet their budding fans in attendance. I have had the privilege of photographing the vamps in Manchester on multiple occasions and to witness them at such an intimate gig on their return tour to live music after the pandemic made it all the more special and made me truly appreciate the fact that this group purely make music for live performances to their fans and that their dedication to their craft is truly unmatched. Fan favourites such as ‘All night’ and ‘Somebody to you’ joined the setlist amongst Cherry Blossom releases like, ‘Married in Vegas’ and ‘Would you’, it really was a night to remember and the band continues to impress and reach brand new levels with every release.
THE VAMPS
JC STEWART
LAURAN HIBBERD
Review + Photos by Lewis Roberts | Exclusively for @Music,Why Not!