Leon Bridges leads a packed house at The Fillmore

Leon Bridges | photo by Joe Del Tufo for WXPN

The Fillmore was packed like sardines for Leon Bridges’ first local show since his knockout Grammy performance last week. Philly’s own Son Little kicked off the night in style with a full band and a kicking 40 minute set. It was a great R&B taster and he certainly held his own with the force of spirit that is Leon Bridges.

Bridges did not disappoint, kicking right off with his hit “Smooth Sailin’” – his band the perfect framework for Bridges’ smooth delivery, nimble footwork, and substantial stage presence.

After bursting on the scene out of nowhere (having apparently been working as a dishwasher just two years ago), I wondered if he could hold down a full headlining set in front of close to 3000 people. No sweat, as he ripped through a 70 minute set with his hits “Coming Home,” “Better Man” and “River” peppered throughout the set.

The man seems to be everywhere at the moment, from Apple ads to the theme song to the film Concussion, and it seems like that star is about to shoot straight for the arenas.