SHOW REPORT! Sam Bradley, September 30 - October 1 - The Venue - Honolulu, HI

The Venue

Honolulu, HI

September 30, 2011

October 1, 2011

One of the best acoustic concerts of the year occurred this last Friday and Saturday night at the Venue deep at the heart of eclectic and historic Chinatown in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Along side a thirst-quenched crowd, Frank Taua III opened up the evening with a blend of country and local style songs that both entertained and prepared the patrons for what was to come. Surprisingly, this unassuming musician with a melodic voice deemed the perfect compliment to the headlining performer, Sam Bradley. And as Taua played his last chords, the crowd of fans eagerly awaited.

By the scent of plumerias, fans such as Lori Wright leid the performer early on in the night to show Sam her appreciation and Aloha spirit for the musician.

“We cannot stop talking about him and his strong voice, that is more than able to express his feelings and how his music reaches into your soul and the words change your life... We feel as though we are not just fans but friends.” Wright added.

As Sam came out to set up, there were cheers of excitement at every move the revered singer/songer made; from the placement of his water bottles, to the taping of his set list--his fans were sure to let it be known that they were there to support him and ecstatic of his arrival in Hawaii which was to be Bradley’s first visit.

As the emcee broadcasted Bradley’s name, the crowd that had patiently waited screamed in anticipation. Sam did not disappoint.

Within the dimly candle lit room, reverberated the enigmatic sounds of songs such as “Details” and “Whiskey and You”, while more playful tunes such as “Hippie and Sugar Momma”, allowed the fans to dance and clap while singing along. Impressively, Bradley even included an acoustic version of Blackstreet’s 1996 R&B hit “No Diggity”, which had the same awesome effect as when The Fray recorded their version of Kanye West’s “Heartless”. To summarize, it was an amazing set of roughly 13 of Bradley’s choosing, all played with heart and charisma, something that very few acoustic performers are able to convey; there is something commanding in Bradley’s voice and paired with his enthusiasm and adoration of performing, translated into a one man show that captivated audiences. To be so close and personal with such a talented artist is rare these days, and with musicians opting for quantity in ticket sales, rather than quality in performance; it was a treasure to be within arm’s reach of this Vancouver based musician, whose talent is beyond measure.

Over all, Sam Bradley wow’d his newbie fans, including myself and delighted long-time ones. His presence and approachability lends to his popularity (after each show, Sam made it a point to talk with fans, sign autographs and even skirted a few moves as the dj began to play the evenings dance set). Sam Bradley made an indelible impression on Hawaii and fans were quickly tweeting after the shows how sorry they were to see him leave. If one could translate into words Sam’s performances here in Hawaii, it would be that it was somewhat magical, a bonding experience for both the artist and the listener. We can only hope that Sam will return to the islands, for he is already missed dearly.

malamapono a hui ho-take care, until we meet again

Show Reporter:  Suzie Setzler

Suzie is a writer for Inside Out Hawaii Magazine

Photos by Suzie Setzler and are protected by copyright