Live Review: Calum Scott in Melbourne
31st January 2025 at the Forum, Melbourne, Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photography by Jeana Thomas Photography
Calum Scott’s show last night at the Forum in Melbourne left the crowd spellbound, with every note he sang feeling like it was meant for that very moment.
Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Calum’s performance was an intimate and deeply emotional experience for the audience. With a career that has seen him rise to international fame, his performance at the Forum showcased both his musical evolution and his unshakable connection with fans.
Calum first captured the public’s attention on Britain’s Got Talent in 2015. His tender rendition of Robyn’s ‘Dancing On My Own’ earned him widespread admiration and led to his eventual rise in the music industry. Calum’s vulnerability, as he poured his emotions into the song, became his signature. The video of his performance quickly went viral, and it wasn’t long before record labels came knocking. His debut single, ‘Dreams’, followed by his 2018 album ‘Only Human’, brought him recognition on a global scale.
Calum’s voice is his defining feature, powerful yet delicate, capable of evoking raw emotion with just a few notes. His authenticity and openness about his personal experiences, especially around themes of love, heartache and self-discovery, have made him a voice for many and his journey from a hopeful auditionee on a TV show to headlining at venues like the Forum is nothing short of inspiring.
The Forum, with its rich history and reputation for hosting top-tier performances, was an ideal setting for Calum’s performance. While the venue can accommodate thousands of people, it manages to maintain an intimate atmosphere that allows fans to feel close to the artist.
While we were waiting for Calum to take to the stage, I spoke to a lovely lady, Mandy, who showed me Calum’s signature on her arm. He had asked her to come back after the meet-and-greet had wrapped up, as he wanted to make sure he could take his time to sign her arm properly, a thoughtful gesture that made her feel incredibly special. When she returned, he carefully wrote his signature, giving her a moment she’d never forget. The personal touch and kindness he showed left her overjoyed, knowing she had an unforgettable keepsake from one of her favourite artists.
The second Calum stepped on stage, it was undeniable that he shared an undeniable bond with the crowd, as if the energy between them sparked instantly. The venue’s acoustics only enhanced the experience, as his voice filled every corner with ease and clarity, creating a sense of warmth that enveloped everyone present.
Calum opened the night with “Lighthouse,” a soaring anthem of resilience and hope, setting the tone for an emotional journey. He followed with “Rhythm Inside,” his debut original song from 2016, capturing the excitement and uncertainty of newfound love. The deeply personal “No Matter What” reflected on his struggles with acceptance, resonating with fans who have faced similar challenges. “Run to Me” showcased his signature heartfelt vocals, drawing the audience in with its raw vulnerability. The night culminated with “You Are The Reason,” his beloved 2017 ballad, which beautifully expresses devotion and the lengths we go to for love.
His performance conveyed emotions through storytelling. From the opening notes of ‘Lighthouse to the powerful crescendo of ‘Rise’, Calum’s vocal range was on full display. His voice, often fragile and soft in the verses, could shift effortlessly into bold, soaring notes during the choruses. Each song felt like a personal confession, as if Calum was sharing pieces of his soul with the audience.
While Calum is best known for ‘Dancing On My Own’, he has evolved significantly since those early days of his career. At the Forum, it was evident that his sound has matured, incorporating more pop elements and a broader range of influences. Tracks like ‘No Matter What’ and ‘You Are the Reason’, showcased his ability to blend soaring ballads with contemporary pop rhythms. These songs weren’t just crowd-pleasers, they were anthems of self-empowerment and love, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level.
One of the standout moments of the night was his performance of ‘Tears on the Ground’, a song that explores the pain of loss and heartache. As the crowd swayed to the beat, it was impossible not to feel the rawness in his voice. Calum’s ability to convey deep emotional vulnerability through his music is a gift and it was on full display in this performance. The song’s sparse instrumentation allowed his voice to shine and it became clear why fans connect with him so deeply, he isn’t just singing songs, he’s sharing his heart.
Throughout the concert, he frequently paused to speak directly to the crowd, sharing stories behind his songs and offering gratitude for their support. It was more than just a show; it was a dialogue and a shared experience.
Calum’s genuine warmth and humility made it clear that he doesn’t take his success for granted as he expressed how much it means to him to be able to perform for people who have supported him over the years.
At one point, he invited fans to participate in singing ‘Run With Me’ and the entire venue erupted in unison. It was a magical moment, one where the music and the fans became one entity. For many, that song represents a deeply personal moment in their lives and hearing it live in such a setting made it all the more special. It’s about finding solace and strength in a deep connection with someone, offering unconditional support through life’s struggles.
He closed with ‘You Are the Reason’ and it was clear that Calum Scott has solidified his place as one of today’s most genuine and talented artists. It wasn’t just a display of his vocal abilities, it was a celebration of the journey he has taken, the lessons he’s learned and the people who have supported him along the way.
As Calum continues to evolve as an artist, one thing is certain, he has a rare gift and we’re lucky to witness his ongoing journey.
Calum Scott will support The Script at A Day On The Green in Barrosa Valley and Perth this week. Yep, we’ll be there in Perth
Guest: JOSH HANNAN
For those who may not be familiar with Josh, he’s one of those artists whose music has a way of sneaking into your soul. His blend of indie, pop and alternative sounds creates a unique atmosphere that’s both laid-back and electrifying. Josh’s song-writing has always resonated with his listeners, touching on everything from personal growth to universal struggles with an honesty that feels refreshingly real. His humble beginnings in Melbourne have allowed him to cultivate a strong local following and performances like this, show why he’s been steadily rising in the Australian music scene.
At the Forum, it wasn’t just about the music. Sure, his vocals were on point and his guitar skills undeniable, but what really stood out was how Josh made the crowd feel. Every song seemed to tell a story. Whether it was the infectious energy of his upbeat tracks or the soul-stirring intimacy of his slower ballads, as if sharing pieces of himself.
Josh has an unassuming, down-to-earth demeanour. At one point, he paused between songs to talk about the inspiration behind his music and how one of the songs he sang was written by himself and his mother, effortlessly bridging the gap between artist and audience. Fans were cheering and applauding in appreciation of his undeniable gift. His talent shines effortlessly, proving he is a rising star destined for greatness.
His music had left an imprint on everyone present. With a bright future ahead, it’s safe to say Josh is an artist to watch, because if his Melbourne performance was anything to go by, he’s only just getting started.
About the Writer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography.
About Sheldon Ang Media: Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) have been accredited to more than 140 of the hottest acts including Coldplay (Perth), Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and The Kid LAROI with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 70 artists. SAM is also a music journalist on the Triple M Radio network.
