2024/02/18 – Zara Larsson – o2 Academy, Birmingham

Review & Photos: G. Rossington.

Pop sensation Zara Larsson lit up the O2 Academy in Birmingham with an exhilarating performance that left the audience quite simply buzzing. Known for her powerhouse vocals and infectious energy, Larsson delivered a show that was both visually stunning and musically captivating, turning the intimate venue into a pop utopia.

The evening began with an energetic performance from emerging Swedish pop artist Yaeger. Her infectious vocals combined with impressive beats and engaging presence quickly won over the crowd. Her performances of ‘Ciao’ and ‘Jaguar’ were standout moments, setting a high bar for the night. Final track ‘Lupins In Blue’ cemented the young sensation’s status as a definite one to watch in the coming years. By now, the packed venue was perfectly primed for Zara Larsson.

As the lights dimmed and the intro music began, the anticipation in the room was incredible. Zara Larsson burst onto the back of the stage that was risen above her band, and immediately showcased her dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess. The crowd’s reaction was ecstatic, singing along and dancing from the very first note of opener ‘Venus’.

The setlist was a well-crafted mix of her biggest hits and tracks from her latest album. Songs like ‘Never Forget You’ and ‘Ruin My Life’ had the crowd singing every word, creating an atmosphere of communal celebration. Larsson’s performance of ‘Symphony’, her collaboration with Clean Bandit, was a highlight of the night, with her soaring vocals and emotive delivery captivating everyone in the room.

Larsson’s musicianship was top-notch throughout the night. Her vocal range and control were impressive, effortlessly moving from powerful belting to delicate falsettos. The live band and backup dancers added a rich, dynamic layer to the performance, creating a visually and sonically engaging show.

With a stage presence that was both commanding and personable, Larsson interacted with the audience between songs, sharing personal anecdotes and expressing heartfelt gratitude for their support. These moments of connection added a personal touch to the performance, making the fans feel genuinely appreciated and involved.

The visual elements of the show were stunning. The lighting design, combined with vibrant video backdrops and dynamic choreography, created a mesmerizing spectacle that enhanced the musical experience. Each song had its unique visual theme, adding depth and excitement to the performance.

After a brief exit from the stage, Larsson returned for an encore that brought the night to a thrilling climax. She performed ‘On My Love’, her collaboration with David Guetta and a crowd favorite that had everyone dancing and singing along with abandon. ‘Lush Life’ arrived next which due to the reaction of the audience could have been the final track at an Arena show and certainly left everyone wanting more. The final song of the night, ‘Can’t Tame Her’ was an emotional and powerful end to the concert, showcasing once again her incredible vocal talents and leaving the audience in awe.

Zara Larsson delivered a performance that was energetic, emotive, and thoroughly captivating. Her ability to connect with the audience through her music and personality made for a truly special evening. For fans and newcomers alike, it was a night that showcased the immense talent and star power of this pop powerhouse. An outstanding concert that left a lasting impression.