It was an unusually cold, windy day on June 4 at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles, California—but that did not deter Leon Bridges fans from packing the beautiful venue the moment the gates opened. Concertgoers were treated to a surprisingly enjoyable opening set by LA LOM. The Los Angeles trio—guitarist Zac Sokolow, bassist Jake Faulkner, and percussionist Nicholas Baker—delivered a unique blend of surf guitar, cumbia, and Peruvian chicha as the setting sun bathed the amphitheater in an orange glow.
Formed at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, LA LOM has carved out a distinctive sound with its innovative fusion of diverse genres. Joined by a guest slide guitarist for several songs, they showcased their musical prowess in an hour-long set.
As evening fell and the gusty winds swept through Vina Robles, Leon Bridges stepped onto the stage with a warmth that defied the cold. Bundled in jackets and scarves, the resilient crowd buzzed with anticipation. From the opening chords of “When a Man Cries,” Bridges’s smooth voice cut through the brisk air, setting a powerful tone. His expertly curated setlist wove together new material and beloved classics, each song resonating with emotional depth.
Despite the chill, the audience’s energy never waned. Fans huddled together under shared blankets, singing along passionately—especially during the emotional high of “River.” One attendee quipped, “This man’s got soul, even in a windstorm!” Bridges’s humor about the weather kept the mood light, and his band navigated technical challenges—fluttering microphones and stage décor threatened by gusts—with consummate professionalism. In fact, the wind seemed to infuse the performance with a raw authenticity that only amplified its intimacy.
The unpolished feel of the night underscored Bridges’s gift for forging a connection, no matter the elements. As his final notes drifted into the cool evening, many fans described the show as “soulful,” “powerful,” and “unforgettable.” For the encore, Bridges chose two spiritual gems—“Peaceful Place” and “Smooth Sailin’”—which felt like a journey under a crystal-clear night sky dotted with stars.
By night’s end, it was clear that nothing—not even the bitter winds—could dampen Leon Bridges’s brilliance. The audience departed inspired, their spirits warmed by the music and the shared resilience beneath the chilly Paso Robles sky.
Set List Highlights
When a Man Cries
Panther City
Better Man
Flowers
Laredo
Coming Home
That’s What I Love
Never Satisfied
Mariella
Steam
Ain’t Got Nothing on You
Texas Sun
You Don’t Know
Bad Bad News
If It Feels Good
Hold On
Can’t Have It All
God Loves Everyone
River
Peaceful Place
Smooth Sailin’
