To be completely transparent, I couldn’t name a single Louis Tomlinson song leading up to this show. Obviously, I’m well aware of him as a person and One Direction’s music because I don’t completely live under a rock. I also know he’s managed to keep his career going strong with a huge, loyal fan base, so I was excited to head along and see what all the fuss was about. Safe to say, leaving the show, I understood the hype.
I arrived at a muddy and rainy Riverstage, which is a completely open-air venue, and assumed most people would wait until Louis came on before braving the weather. I was very wrong. His loyal fans were conquering the rain to secure the best spots possible, with ponchos everywhere and the occasional person shivering and hugging themselves to stay warm. Thankfully, I remembered my poncho!
Kicking off the night was local band Friends of Friends. I’ve seen them play a few times now, with the highlight being an acoustic set opening for Slowly Slowly. While the majority of the crowd weren’t familiar with the band, they certainly fell in love that night. Their cover of Paramore’s ‘Ain’t It Fun’ had everyone singing along, warming up the crowd for the next act.
Rum Jungle were up next, and while I’m familiar with their music, I hadn’t seen them live before. I was really impressed by their ability to engage the crowd and keep everyone entertained. Their chats between songs were genuine and funny, and they sounded even stronger live than on recordings. I’m certain they’re on their way to becoming one of Australia’s next big bands, headlining festivals and huge venues in the future.
Then it was time for Louis Tomlinson, and the crowd squeezed towards the front to get the best spot possible. The lights dimmed, and a laser began outlining the iconic question mark at the end of the catwalk. So dramatic. So cool. I love a laser moment!
Louis and his band walked on stage and jumped straight into ‘Lemonade’. The crowd erupted at the sight of him, with hands immediately in the air. He wasted no time getting everyone involved, pointing at fans and encouraging them to sing along. Of course, every time he pointed at someone or even came close to them, the screaming went up another level.
A couple of songs in, Louis took things back to his 2022 album, Faith in the Future, with ‘Written All Over Your Face’ and ‘Out of My System’. The crowd was especially loud for these tracks, making me wonder if this was the fan-favourite album. Maybe just because the fans have had longer to sit with that album. Maybe by his next tour, the songs from How Did I Get Here? will get the same reaction!
‘Saturdays’ was a slower moment that really highlighted Louis’ vocals, which sounded just as good live. The lighting towards the end was incredible, with lasers combining with the rain to create what looked like glitter floating through the venue.
‘Dark to Light’ ended up being my favourite song of the night. By the end, I was singing along despite never having heard it before the show. Another highlight came a few songs later with the One Direction classic ‘Night Changes’. This was easily the loudest moment of the night, with every single person singing along, whether they were a Louis fan or not. Everyone knows this song, and judging by the tears around Riverstage, it still means a lot to people.
Throughout the rest of the set, Louis maintained his strong vocals and kept the crowd engaged, with the energy barely dropping despite the rain.
The second-last song, ‘Miss You’, was another huge singalong moment, and one I somehow even knew!
Closing out the night with ‘Palaces’, Louis gave the crowd one last chance to sing their hearts out while jumping down to the barricade to get up close and person with his biggest fans. Despite the rain and mud, the fans never stopped showing their love for him, and it was clear just how much this tour meant to everyone there.
Between the impressive production, strong live vocals and constant audience interaction, it was easy to understand why his fans remain so loyal.
I arrived knowing practically nothing about his solo music and left with a deep appreciation for what he does. If this show proved anything, it’s that Louis Tomlinson is much more than his One Direction history, and I can absolutely see myself listening to his music long after this tour.
Photos by Cassie Jones (@cassjvisuals)
