SAM RYDER BRINGS ‘CHRISTMAS FESTIVIE’ TO STOKE-ON-TRENT’S VICTORIA HALL

★★★★★ (5/5)

SAM RYDER PERFORMING AT STOKE-ON-TRENT’S VICTORIA HALL
PHOTOCREDIT: SABRINA RAMDOYAL

The festive season is in full swing, and on Friday the 13th, Victoria Hall served as the perfect venue for the grand finale of Sam Ryder's winter tour. This concert was more than just an event; it was a powerful celebration of his exceptional talent and the meteoric rise he has experienced since his standout participation in the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest.

From the moment he took the stage with "Tiny Riot," Sam Ryder captivated the audience with powerful vocals that demanded attention. As he seamlessly transitioned into "Living Without You," it became clear that this eclectic solo artist was ready to make a significant impact on the UK music scene. Throughout the evening, Ryder showcased an impressive vocal range, particularly in "Whirlwind," where each note was infused with commitment and passion. Tracks like "Put a Light on Me" and "Mountain" resonated deeply, sparking enthusiastic sing-alongs and forging a strong connection with his fans. He emerged as a symbol of hope and resilience—a true representative of his generation.

The concert masterfully blended original songs with unexpected covers, including the iconic "You Got The Love" by The Source. A standout moment occurred when a fan in an Iron Maiden t-shirt broke Ryder’s characters and unleashed a wave of enthusiasm, highlighting the diverse fanbase present at Ryder's show while amusing a few onlookers. When he debuted "White Lie" live, the audience was further spellbound by his vocal versatility. "Ten Tons" lifted spirits even higher, while "July," slated for release in February 2025, hinted at exciting prospects for Ryder's future.

As the main set drew to a close, anticipation for the encore reached a peak. The venue erupted when "Spaceman" reverberated through the hall—the very song that propelled him into the spotlight during and after the pandemic. The concert concluded with "You’re Christmas to Me," followed by an exhilarating finale featuring "More," leaving attendees invigorated and fulfilled. Sam Ryder’s final concert of the tour was a bold affirmation of his talent and the connection he has forged through music. As fans left with unforgettable memories of a vibrant winter night, Sam Ryder's place in their hearts was firmly established, signalling a bright future ahead.