THE VAMPS FRONTMAN ‘BRADLEY SIMPSON’ PERFORMING AT
LONDON’S VILLAGE UNDERGROUND

★★★★☆ (4/5)

BRADLEY SIMPSON PERFORMING AT LONDON’S VILLAGE UNDERGROUND
PHOTOCREDIT: MILES HUMPHRIES

Brad Simpson, the Brummie, charismatic frontman of The Vamps, took to the intimate stage of Underground Village on Monday night, delivering a performance that felt both deeply personal and utterly electric. Performing to a packed room of devoted fans, Simpson proved that even outside of his band, his charm and talent shine just as brightly.

Kicking off with tracks from his solo repertoire, Simpson immediately set the tone for the evening. The stripped-back venue only amplified his connection to the crowd, as he effortlessly blended anecdotes with his songs. It felt less like a concert and more like a shared experience, where every lyric and note resonated as if it were written for each person in the room.

A highlight of the night came when Simpson delivered two masterful covers. First, he injected new life into Hot to Go, a sultry, funk-infused track that had the crowd dancing from start to finish. Later, he slowed things down with a tender rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s Dreams. Stripping the iconic hit to its emotional core, Simpson’s voice carried a raw vulnerability that left the audience spellbound. The balance between his original material and these tributes showcased his versatility as an artist and his ability to make even the most well-known songs feel uniquely his own.

A major topic of conversation was his upcoming solo album, ‘The Panic Years’, said to be about life in your 20’s, which seemed to be is main audience, due for release in Febuary 2025. Simpson hinted at a more introspective and experimental sound, reflecting on how the writing process allowed him to explore sides of himself that might not fit within The Vamps' signature style. If the new songs he performed are any indication, the album promises to be a compelling blend of heartfelt storytelling and fresh sonic landscapes.

The night closed with an encore that brought the crowd to its feet, cementing the fact that Simpson is not just a band frontman but a solo artist in his own right. His ability to command the stage, connect with his audience, and deliver both fun and poignant moments is a testament to his growth as a musician. As fans spilled out of Underground Village, the excitement for what’s to come was palpable. With an album on the way, shows lined up, and dreams of an American tour becoming reality, it’s clear Brad Simpson is only just beginning his solo chapter—and it’s a journey that’s sure to be extraordinary.