Ruel. 4TH WALL WORLD TOUR lands in the UK with an amazing performance at the O2 Ritz in Manchester

26th September 202330th September 2023 Sofia Robertson 103 Views

Australian singer-songwriter Ruel kicks off the UK leg of the 4TH WALL WORLD TOUR at the O2 Ritz in Manchester on the 23rd of September 2023, supported by Australian trio Telenova.

O2 Ritz has been at the heart of the Manchester music scene for almost 90 years and was a fitting venue for the concert. With a capacity of 1,500 people, fans queued around the block hours before the show, hoping to get the all-important barricade position. The atmosphere outside was electric and security at the O2 Ritz ushered the concert-goers into the venue quickly, with clear instructions and a warm, friendly smile.

The show kicked off at 7pm, as Telenova took to the stage, with the Manchester crowd showing their appreciation by lifting the volume through cheers and whistles. Telenova is an Australian alternative-indie trio formed in Melbourne in 2020 and their debut single, Bones, was released in March 2021. Telenova owned the stage for 30 minutes and left with rapturous applause, leaving the crowd hungry for more incredible music, but having to stop their final song short as one excited fan became overwhelmed and had to be pulled to safety by security.

The anticipation grew as fans eagerly waited for the appearance of Ruel, who magically appeared on stage hidden by smoke and flashing lights, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Ruel began singing the first song of the night “GO ON WITHOUT ME”, along with excited fans singing every word with him. The volume increased even more as Ruel jumped down to the front of the stage during his second song “GROWING UP IS _____”, sending the Manchester crowd wild as they scrambled towards the barricade for the best view possible.

Ruel then slowed the tempo as he took to the keyboard for the next 5 songs, which included covers of “I Gotta Feeling” from the Black Eyed Peas and “Night Changes” by One Direction. The atmosphere was absolutely electric as the whole crowd sang at the top of their voices to Night Changes. This prompted Ruel to acknowledge the crowd’s involvement by saying “Manchester you’re amazing tonight, I thought you might love that one”. Next up was a special song called “The Weight”, which Ruel had written especially for the Lifeline Charity, a short song that was just Ruel and his guitarist, clearly a charity that Ruel is keen to support.

Throughout the night Ruel showcased his amazing voice and his connection with the crowd solidified as they sang along to every word. This bond was further enhanced as Ruel sang “Younger” while jumping off stage to greet the crowd at the barricade. After singing “END SCENE”, Ruel left the stage to prepare for the final song, as fans grew more and more excited for his return in a new outfit. Taking to the stage for the final time, Ruel appeared in his trademark blue jumper and white trousers, belting out the final hit “I DON’T WANNA BE LIKE YOU”. Ruel closed the show by thanking everyone involved for supporting and pulling together the 4TH WALL WORLD TOUR.

Overall Ruel’s show at the O2 Ritz was one to remember and showcased both his undeniable talent and the support of his fans. As the lights dimmed and the crowd dispersed, it was clear his fans wanted more, waiting outside at the tour bus for a final appearance. Ruel didn’t disappoint, greeting his fans outside for autographs and selfies, before departing for the next show.

SETLIST: