REVIEWED: Post Malone at Manchester Arena

Announced in October, Post Malone set off on his first UK tour with dates in London, Ireland and Manchester. The tour focused on his second album Beerbongs & Bentleys which broke record streams, racking up over 78 million in the first 24 hours. With an extra date added in London due to demand, Post Malone’s Manchester debut was set to be a true rock star performance.

As the lights dimmed at 9pm the anticipation was almost unbearable. The crowds begun to scream as they spotted Post strolling nonchalantly down the centre isle of the stage. He was dressed in a royal blue two piece with union jacks embroidered on his shirt and pants. The audience’s reception to his presence was immense.

Demonstrating all his musical aspects and talent he weaved through the set from his more aggressive rap songs to his lighter more acoustic style tracks. One stand out moment was his track ‘Candy Paint’. As the lights reflected the colours of the rainbow the audience was met with purple fireworks on each line of the catchy chorus, finishing with a huge burst of flames from the pyrotechnic crew.

Debuting his new single ‘Wow.” its rhythmic intro lit up the Arena as the bass slid from note to note. Featuring multiple plays on UK radio the crowd seemed well educated on the lyrics and rhythm of the song. Post glided through it with ease as the audience helped sing the catchy hook.

One of the highlights of Post’s music is his balance of emotion, the blend of hard rap and vulnerable acoustics. His live show delivered this expertly. After the explosive first half he brought out his acoustic guitar; addressing the audience with his more softer side. Post then proceeded to light a cigarette adding “it’s worth the £3000 fine”. The smooth acoustics worked well as the audiences sung every lyric back as their personal connection with the artist grew deeper.

As his set came to a close there was one song which had yet to show its face. His first global number one; Rockstar. With its hypnotic hook and distorted 808’s it was one last chance for the audience to go crazy. As the pyrotechnics launched rockets down the stage Post bounced up and down with a mean smile, his voice projected Rockstars lyrics with strength and command as the audience leaped around.

Post delivered a diverse performance which was carefully structured for the live audience. It featured twists and turns of emotions with even the seated crowd standing, filling up the outer aisles. His characteristic smile was undoubtedly charming and his live show felt like a true reflection of his personality. He ended with an inspirational and heartfelt monologue concerning the distaste he received before he achieved global success.

Post Malone’s Manchester debut was a gleaming success; delivering a masterclass of musical talent with an outstanding onstage charisma. It was a true rockstar performance and even featured the destruction of his own acoustic guitar at the end. With his barrage of hit singles and unrelenting energy, it will be a night to remember for the Manchester audience.