On a drizzly bank holiday Sunday evening, the open-air arena at Bristol Harbourside hosted a smaller yet enthusiastic crowd for The Vamps’ performance. Despite the rain and holiday celebrations, hardcore fans were excited to see their favourite British pop band in person. The audience, primarily made up of tweens, filled the air with ear-piercing screams of anticipation for the band.
As the lights dimmed and the music began, the crowd erupted for the opening of “Staying Up.” Leading man Bradley showcased his incredible voice, charming the audience with phrases like “You’re looking beautiful this evening, Bristol!” This only fueled the overwhelming excitement.
The Vamps performed fan favourites like “Last Night” and “Can We Dance,” with their catchy melodies cutting through the excited screams. While Bradley, the lead singer, commanded attention, the rest of The Vamps—especially Tristan, the drummer known for his humorous antics—engaged the crowd flawlessly.
The pop-heavy set proved enjoyable for all ages. Even older attendees, who came with family, found themselves bopping along to hits like “Wild Heart” and “Personal.” The stage came alive with vibrant light shows and lasers, perfectly matching The Vamps’ energetic performance. Fans tossed animal masks onto the stage, which the band playfully tried to wear during the next song. However, the excitement of “Can We Dance” led to the masks being tossed back into the crowd midway through, showcasing the fun atmosphere.
The encore was just as electrifying. Bradley surprised everyone by bringing his family dog, Jess, onto the stage, sparking heartwarming reactions from fans. The set concluded with popular tracks “Wake Up” and “All Night,” igniting the audience’s enthusiasm as they jumped and danced to the beat. This lively finale created a party-like atmosphere, leaving fans smiling as they left the venue. Even older men walked away energised and happy.
The Vamps have proven they can captivate any audience, even those who may not typically be boy band fans. With their infectious energy, engaging merch, and hit songs like “Cecilia feat Shawn Mendes,” they deliver performances that entertain everyone. This show perfectly demonstrates why The Vamps have skyrocketed to fame—they were truly born to be on stage.
