Photo Credit: Neema Sadeghi
Words: Anisa Bhana

On Saturday night, American singer-songwriter Role Model, took to the stage at the Leeds O2 Academy for the second UK leg of his sold out ‘No Place Like Tour (The Longest Goodbye)‘, following the release of the deluxe version of his album ‘Kansas Anymore’. The album departs from his previous alt-pop style of music with a significant shift to indie-folk with elements of country incorporated, which has since been met with nothing but praise as his breakthrough year on the music scene has been widely successful and gifted him a diverse fanbase. 

As the crowd weaved their way in with their country-style outfits and cowboy boots (perfectly matching the albums aesthetic) trying to find the best viewpoint, the pre-show setlist played songs from artists such as Sabrina Carpenter and Lana Del Rey which instantly connected everyone in the venue, singing in unity and predicting who the ‘Sally’ of the show would be. The phenomenal opener of the show Chloe Slater certainly gained many new fans that night with her moving and brave lyricism and unfaltering stage presence alongside her talented band with their indie-rock sound and unique style which perfectly warmed up the crowd getting everyone excited and raising spirits.

When the house lights dimmed, the chatter ceased and was replaced by bellowing screams of excited fans that had eagerly waited for this moment for so long. The opening song ‘Writing on the Wall’ began as Role Model stepped out into the spotlight, surely feeling on top of the world with thousands of eyes on him, screaming the lyrics passionately at him. As he moved through the first few songs, performing fan favourites ‘Look at That Woman’ and ‘Oh, Gemini’ his energy and presence was felt by everyone with smiles engraved on every persons face and light-up bracelets and bubbles were floating around the smoke machines. Short intervals between the songs entailed speeches from Role Model tailored to the city of Leeds which felt more like a conversation as he is so connected to his fans and appreciative of the support he receives which is something usually unseen, the jokes between the audience and himself created a joyous atmosphere throughout the show. 

The setlist was perfectly catered to both long-time and new fans with older songs such as ‘Blind’ being played along with more recent ones like ‘Slut Era Interlude’. Surprisingly for most, he also played a cover of The 1975 hit song ‘Somebody Else’ which was absolutely belted by the crowd. Towards the end of his set, slower ballads such as ‘Some Protector’ were played and emotions were high all through the venue with some fans holding each other crying, which highlighted the strength and intensity of Role Model‘s talent and ability to not only create good music, but bring everyone together collectively. However it wasn’t long until the moods were once again raised with arguably his most popular song and most anticipated of the night ‘Sally, When The Wine Runs Out’ to which everyone jumped in sync to with Role Model‘s astounding voice. The Sally of the night was an enthusiastic fan whom was constantly supported and encouraged by the audience as the song and the show came to a close. 

Role Model‘s breakthrough year has been an intense success for him and its no wonder why, his unfaltering performance and connection to his fans is something incredibly special that is unlike many on the scene currently and it is surely exciting for all fans to see what else is in store for the remarkable artist.