When a born entertainer takes to the stage, there is a distinct shift in vibe that takes place in the room. Perhaps not something that can be easily quantified but more of a subtle transition away from unadulterated fandom towards something akin to a mix of delight, power and the slightest hint of bemusement. When such a shift occurs, what follows is a raucous explosion of joy and wonder that lifts the energy of the room beyond what could have seemed possible. 

To those not intimately aware of his music and stylings, Stephen Sanchez may not seem like the obvious embodiment of this feeling. Having only just turned 21, he is still a relative newcomer to the music scene (especially the international music scene) and has embraced a style of music which draws great influence from 50s and 60s music (which, perhaps at first glance, does not neatly align with the styles that generally connect with younger demographics). But after seeing Sanchez grace the stage at the Enmore Theatre, there can be no doubt that this is a man on the fast track to superstardom. From the voice to the moves to the personality, Sanchez will rise through the ranks fast. 

As Sanchez entered the stage, there was a fervour around the room as screams quickly turned into an encapsulating and pulsating beat. Sanchez began his set with a slow number “Something About Her” which he performed shrouded in darkness. This gave the start of the concert a hypnotic and almost ethereal feel as he captivated the audience with the power of his voice from the very first moments. The instant transition to “Evangeline” provided a quick change in pace but immediately showed off Sanchez’s versatility. 

The comparisons between Sanchez and Elvis are so obvious that they might seem lazy. But the way Sanchez moved around the stage, almost gliding from side to side, there really was no better comparison. He commanded the stage as if he owned it whether by his highly developed movement (which was certainly a surprise), his voice or by his general presence. His music also clearly drew influence from other artists of the era like Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison, the latter of whom he covered in an invigorating rendition of “Oh Pretty Woman” which was one of the highlights of the night. 

While Sanchez was having great fun bouncing around the stage, he was at his best in some of the slower numbers in his set. “Be More” followed by “Fame or Fortune” were both beautiful and tender and a nice counterpoint to the rest of the set. Sanchez’s powerful vibrato rang strong on these numbers and it filled the Enmore Theatre with a warm and full sound. 

Sanchez’s band were also top notch throughout the night, with his guitarist in particular taking a number of solos to the delight of the crowd. 

As the night drew to a close, Sanchez performed his viral ballad “Until I Found You.” It was the perfect performance, with Sanchez possessing all the heart in person that he did on the original record. It was a great ending to a fabulous show. 

The next time Stephen Sanchez comes to Sydney, I suspect he will be playing a much bigger arena than the Enmore Theatre. This was a performance of the highest order, with wonderful musicality and skill. At only 21, it seems Sanchez can only continue to go from strength to strength. 

Rating: ★★★★★

Stephen Sanchez – 29^th April, 2024 – Enmore Theatre