Live Review – James Blunt – Brisbane 2025

All images: Andrew Treadwell Photography

James Blunt brought his sold-out 20th-anniversary tour celebrating Back to Bedlam to Brisbane, demonstrating his effortless ability to captivate a massive audience. His performance was an incredible blend of chart-topping music and sharp comedic timing, proving the social media wit who dominates X is an even more electrifying presence on stage.

Local Australian talent, singer-songwriter Go-Jo (Marty Jo Zambotto), delivered an outstanding opening set. With his charming style, high energy, and excellent song choices like “Mrs Hollywood,” he successfully warmed up the venue, leaving the impression that he’s destined for major headlining success.

The concert unfolded as a journey through time, starting with a complete rendition of his breakthrough album. After igniting the show with the hit “High” and following up with the globally famous “You’re Beautiful,” Blunt playfully acknowledged the elephant in the room, joking that the show was “all downhill from here!” The crowd quickly realized he couldn’t have been further from the truth. The subsequent forty-five minutes highlighted the album’s profound substance, moving from the forceful rock guitar solo in “Wisemen” to the genuine, sorrowful piano piece “Goodbye My Lover.”

Blunt’s quintessential self-deprecating English humour was the perfect balance to the emotional sincerity of his lyrics, creating a unique and compelling stage dynamic. He interacted with the audience with relaxed familiarity, even playfully citing the album’s massive sales as the reason for his luxurious Ibiza home. His humor peaked as he needled the crowd about the irony of “You’re Beautiful”, a song he admits has a slightly creepy backstory, being a wedding staple.

Beyond the iconic debut, the setlist showcased newer material that was equally moving. “Monsters,” his poignant ode to his unwell father, brought the vast venue to a “collective silence,” underscoring the universal resonance of his deeply felt songs. His exceptionally skilled band laid down a flawless backdrop, allowing Blunt the freedom to cycle through instruments, from guitar and piano to a lighthearted ukulele on “Postcards.” The show even featured bursts of raw energy, like the lively rock section of “So Long, Jimmy.” Ultimately, James Blunt couldn’t care less about being perceived as “cool,” and the full Brisbane crowd felt the same. He is simply a first-rate entertainer, a performer who can evoke tears with his heartbreaking melodies one moment, and literally run through the crowd the next. The ecstatic, joyous conclusion with “Bonfire Heart” and “1973” sealed the deal. His powerful vocals and masterful stage presence were his greatest assets. As he signed off with the promise of a future return, every person in Brisbane undoubtedly hoped it wouldn’t take another two decades.