Review: Jacob Collier at Bristol Sounds 2023
Posted on: 23 Jun 2023"From the moment Jacob Collier took the stage, his energy and passion radiated throughout the venue"
Bristol Sounds, the annual music festival known for its diverse lineup and stunning open-air venue, reached new heights on June 22nd with a highly anticipated performance by the multi-talented musical prodigy, Jacob Collier. The evening started with support from Louis Cole, a Canadian artist best known for his eclectic electronic sound – overhead last night, he is “the Swiss army knife of music”, effortlessly combining elements of funk, jazz, electronic, and pop, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.
The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as fans gathered at the Lloyds Amphitheatre for Collier’s appearance, and he did not disappoint, delivering a mesmerizing performance that showcased his immense talent.
From the moment Jacob Collier took the stage, his energy and passion radiated throughout the venue. Running from instrument to instrument, Collier's presence was as captivating as his music. He immediately demonstrated his vocal prowess, effortlessly gliding through intricate melodies and showcasing his astonishing vocal range.
Accompanied by a stellar band of musicians, Collier seamlessly transitioned between genres, blurring the lines of jazz, soul, funk, and pop. The stage was transformed into a musical playground where traditional instruments blended with modern technology. Each song was an adventure, with Collier's masterful arrangements taking the audience on a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns.
One of the highlights of the evening was when Collier showcased his remarkable ability to harmonize with himself using his self-invented "Jacob's Ladder" setup. Layer upon layer of his own vocals intertwined flawlessly, creating an ethereal choir that filled the amphitheatre. Collier's interaction with the audience was equally impressive. He created his signature “audience choir”, conducting the public into beautiful harmony, and with the backdrop of Bristol Harbour, creating a special moment.
The setlist was a carefully curated mix of Collier's original compositions and reimagined classics. Tracks like 'Hideaway' and 'Time Alone With You' showcased his ability to craft infectious melodies that made it impossible for the audience to resist grooving along. The inclusion of a few surprise covers, including Queen’s 'Somebody to Love' added a nostalgic touch that had the crowd singing along in unison.
As the evening drew to a close, with a melodic cover of Frankie Valli’s 'Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You', and some upbeat numbers involving inflatable tube men mirroring his energetic style on stage, Jacob Collier had not only met but exceeded expectations, proving once again why he is considered a musical prodigy of our time. His mastery of various musical styles, velvety vocals, and boundless creativity made for an unforgettable evening.
Images: Ania Shrimpton
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Alex is an Area Manager for the charity FoodCycle, currently living in eclectic Spike Island. As a Devon girl and living in Bristol since 2019, her roots are firmly in the South West and she enjoys exploring Bristol's copious music and food events with a glass of wine in hand.
