Teddy Swims takes the rhythm and blues of 70s icons, injects it with new band funk, and channels rich baritone voice through his body and out through his fingertips, taking the whole stage with it.
Supported by Meg Mac, Teddy and his band Freak Freely played Hindley Street Music Hall on Wednesday night as part of his ‘I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour.’
Meg Mac took the stage with two band mates in a stripped back set. Featuring her sister Hannah on backing vocals and Pete on Guitar, the three swapped between instruments with ease. Her powerful pop vocals and catchy Motown bass lines captivated a pensive crowd. Meg played both familiar hit and new tracks like “Seventeen” hinting at an upcoming album. “Grandma’s Hands” with its percussive hand clapping and evocative vocals was a standout performance.
A sold out venue eagerly awaited the Billboard 200 artist. The atmosphere at the concert was electric, with fans buzzing with excitement as they waited for Teddy Swims to take the stage. As soon as he appeared, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. Teddy’s stage presence was incredible, and he had the audience in the palm of his hand from the first note to the last. His vocals were absolutely stunning, showing off his incredible range and control. Whether he was belting out a powerful ballad or bringing the groove with an upbeat track, Teddy’s voice was truly captivating.
Swims made a dramatic entrance complete with fireworks and straight into a high energy belter with full band. A contrast to his gentle and humble persona on stage between songs. Genuinely caring, Teddy showed a dedication to creating a pleasant experience for the audience, handing out bottles of watering and encouraging them to look after each other and to ‘stay with it’. This theme continued throughout the set with prompts to contact loved ones and to appreciate those around you. Teddy showed his vulnerability talking about the healthiness of crying, his love for his band mates, and missing his Mum while on tour. His performance created a real connection with the audience.
Starting with “Goodbye’s Been Good to You”, the first track of the set included dramatic solos and a big rock ending.
After spraying the audience with confetti cannons in the fourth song, Teddy brought it down with a few tracks with only keys and vocals including a cover of ‘Still the One’ by Shania Twain, dedicated to all the mothers. The quieter middle section of the set included ‘Amazing’, before bringing the guitarist back, and then the whole band. Other hits included ‘Apple Juice’ , his self-proclaimed drinking song, and ‘Hammer to the Heart’. Of course ‘Lose Control’ was a crowd favourite.
Back to the band. It is refreshing to see a band playing everything live. Not one track through the whole set, and what a difference it makes to the sound and the energy. The band provided a rich and dynamic music to his vocals. With two guitars, bass, keys, and drums, every member of Freak Freely is a powerhouse unto themselves. The exaggerated funk, rhythm and blues, soul tastefully yet boldly created a cohesion with the powerfulness of Teddy’s vocals.
Swims is inspired by Marvin Gaye, Steve Wonder, and it shows. First becoming well known on Youtube, Teddy formally released tracks in 2021. His alternative appearance and humble nature provide a juxtaposition between his belting and soulful vocals and his riffs and runs. Don’t let any of this fool you, he is a true performer. His humbleness showed through on the staging – with Teddy being a ‘part of the band’ rather than a singer with a backing band, both sonicallly and physically on the stage.
Listening closely you can hear these influences, but also other elements similar to Australian band The Rubens, Hozier, and others.
Teddy and Freak Freely’s talent, energy, and vibe made for an unforgettable night, leaving the audience buzzing.
Check out I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy here: https://www.teddyswims.com
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