Live Review: Sam Smith, Emma Louise

Thousands of hearts shattered earlier this year when Sam Smith suffered from haemorrhaging of the vocal chords, forcing him to cancel his Perth show. This time 'round, punters weren't taking any chances, queuing up well before doors were set to open.

Emma Louise serenaded the crowd as they excitedly filed into the arena, her hauntingly gorgeous voice drawing people in immediately. The Brisbane local powered through numbers like Jungle and Underflow with poise, settling the crowd in perfectly for the night ahead.

Sam Smith made a deliciously dramatic entrance, complete with an impeccably timed curtain drop. Decked out all in black, the British singer was quick to bust out the falsetto with opener Life Support. The man was all charm throughout the night, apologising profusely for cancelling his previous show, and promising to sing his heart out tonight. And he certainly lived up to that promise.

Smith's vocal intricacies were flawless, making the most insanely technical vocal transitions look easy. A row of lights arched across the entire backdrop; its warm glow at times resembling a halo around Smith's head. Every shy smile that he gave the crowd made hearts melt instantly.

He likened his songs to diaries, emphasising the importance of honesty in his music — and this was more than evident in his face. As he sang, he appeared to completely transport himself back into the very experience that inspired each song.

The night took a funky turn, starting with an uplifting rendition of Like I Can. The entire arena was on its feet, before being treated to a killer solo by his resident drummer. Restart kept the groove going, Smith this time leading the crowd in a two-step.

Before too long a grand piano appeared in the middle of the stage, with Smith ready to slow things down with a medley of Can't Help Falling In Love and Lay Me Down, leaving onlookers feeling all loved up.

Fans were urged to switch on the flashlight of their phones during a rendition of Latch, and within seconds the arena was lit up with thousands of iFireflies. Fan favourite Stay With Me drew the night to a close, leaving fans misty-eyed and holding their significant other just that little bit tighter. It may have taken longer than expected to see you over our end, but, Sam, it's safe to say that you were well worth the wait.