Australian acoustic singer-songwriter Ziggy Alberts brought far more to the table than what you might expect from a typical guitarist with a microphone. His performance at the O2 Academy was a masterclass in connection, reminding everyone that sometimes, less really is more. There’s a purity to his voice and a sincerity in his lyrics that make even the quietest moments feel full — a timeless statement that music doesn’t need to be busy to be full.
From the moment he stepped on stage, there was a calm confidence about him. No theatrics, no forced charm — just honesty, warmth, and effortless charisma. The stage design perfectly matched that aesthetic: a flower-shaped light bloomed softly behind him, each petal glowing in rhythm with the songs, while vintage tripod lamps and a sand-and-sea mural framed the space in tranquil tones. It felt more like a sunset gathering by the ocean than a concert in the heart of the city.
Listening to Ziggy live was like being wrapped in a safety net of sound. His melodies drifted through the crowd with a sense of ease, and you could see it written across everyone’s faces — eyes closed, shoulders relaxed, a few couples gently swaying together. It was one of those gigs where the audience weren’t shouting or too many filming on their phones; they were simply present. Indeed a rare experience in comparison to many other shows I’ve attended.
Personal highlights for me were ‘Stronger’ and ‘Learn Yourself’ — two songs of many that showcase Ziggy Alberts’ gift for storytelling. Both felt deeply introspective yet universally relatable, carrying messages of self-worth and resilience without ever feeling heavy-handed. The titles alone seem to define them perfectly, needing no further explanation once you hear the lyrics fall into place.
There was also something quietly profound about the way he interacted with the crowd between songs. Whether he was sharing a short story behind a song title or humouring with the audience, it felt authentic — like a friend talking to you over coffee rather than a performer addressing thousands.
Overall, the evening felt like an act of escapism — a rare chance to switch off from the noise of the world and sink into something simple, soulful, and real.
For a couple of hours inside the O2 Academy, time stood still — and all that mattered were the sounds and sights that Ziggy Alberts brought to life.