By Richard Hedley
Elliot James Reay is Manchester’s latest rising star, offering a vibrant and modern take on ‘50s rock and roll, with many comparing the 21-year-old to a ‘modern day Elvis’. Blending nostalgic swagger with fresh Gen Z energy, Elliot James Reay is breathing new life into the classic genre – something we witnessed firsthand at his triumphant return-home gig, at Gorilla on Sunday.
Well before doors had opened, fans queued right around the block – all the way from Gorilla to Oxford Road station – and the venue was rammed from the off.
Following a well-received support set from Aimee Fatale, Elliot took to the stage accompanied by Harry Howell on guitar, and Caleb Wilson on an upright acoustic bass. It didn’t take more than a few seconds for them to fully hit their stride, and from then on, the trio were ‘tight as.
Elliot’s set began with his rousing track, Daydreaming, and we were treated to a further 11 songs, including all of Elliot’s 6 so-far-released tracks, a cover of the ‘60s hit Unchained Melody, and a few unreleased numbers, such as American Dream and He Doesn’t Make Me Cry.
Throughout the night Elliot was a true showman – totally relaxed and maintained a natural, easy rapport with his audience throughout. It was a genteel refined evening, high on musicality with a respectful 50s vibe (no hint of any swearing!).
However, Gorilla 100% felt like a Friday or Saturday evening (nothing like some Sunday shows I’ve attended!) with an energised crowd made up of all ages and backgrounds including Elliot’s family and friends.
It was also a very warm evening and, as Elliot noted, inside Gorilla it was hot. Everyone enjoyed the swift and categorical ‘You’re hot!’ response from a young woman at the front…
The quality of Elliot’s set and the audiences’ engagement with it never dropped, and I’d be hard pressed to identify which songs went down best. Personally, I really loved the currently unreleased Mr E, and Elliot’s superbly controlled rendition of Unchained Melody was undoubtedly loved by the crowd.
Elliot’s blessed with a phenomenal voice, totally suited to his modern take on the 50s and 60s: Think Elvis and Bobby Darin, with touches of Billy Fury. It’s also easy to see why Elliot’s frequently compared physically to James Dean, and Elliot’s easy charm was very reminiscent of the latter.
It’s amazing to think that Elliot’s first release was only 12 months ago. His following internationally is already huge and giant steps will surely follow.
A very satisfied crowd exited reluctantly, past Elliot’s car parked in front of Gorilla: the car drawing almost as many admiring looks as its owner had done.
Unless otherwise stated, Photography & Text Copyright 2025 © Richard Hedley/ADRENALINE Magazine.
Jack Walsh 
Charlie Wright 
Alisha Lawton
great review!!
Brilliant write-up for what sounds like a fantastic night. One to watch for sure