Jorja Smith + Ravyn Lenae @ Orpheum Theatre – November 20th 2018

English singer-songwriter Jorja Smith stopped by the Orpheum Theatre on Tuesday for a night of musical magic.

The evening kicked off with American R&B singer Ravyn Lenae taking the stage with her three-piece backing band.

The nineteen-year-old musician danced around the stage while serving up soulful vocals. The audience was captivated by her set and she appeared genuinely humbled by the praise.

Jorja then took over the room. This talented rising star is simply tremendous, from her voice to her look, she is truly special.

The set started with the balanced harmonies of “Lost & Found”, the eponymous track from her debut 2018 album. She stood center stage in a silk slip dress with a rich, colourful curtain draped as her backdrop. Her delivery was both effortless and impassioned, a natural release of emotion.

The crowd stood and poured from their seats towards the stage, just to get a little closer to the beautiful display.

Smith’s backing band showcased their abilities throughout the night. A guitar solo here and a bumpy bass rift there, they added character to the performance, rounding everything out just right.

The hype I read about behind Jorja Smith was huge and it was refreshing to see someone that exceeded my expectations. She proved she can sing but she also showed she could hold the audience in the palm of her hand. The twenty-one-year-old singer isn’t out there with choreographed dances or any superfluous additions, she is delivering raw unadulterated sonic bliss and that it is everything the world needs.

I want to thank both artists for a mesmerizing night of music.

Vancouver needs you both back very, very soon.

Photos © Jamie Taylor // Cryptic Photography