ClAIRO KICKS OFF AN ICONIC NYC RESIDENCY
BY LIAM GILLINLast night, Clairo kicked off her first night of the NYC residency for the Charm Tour. After a successful five night run in Los Angeles at The Fonda, it was time to continue that success in the heart of Lower Manhattan at the iconic Webster Hall.
From a merch line that took over the entire lobby to the general admission pit and balcony being completely filled from wall to wall, I had never seen Webster Hall this packed in all my years of attending concerts there. That alone set in stone what was to come. I spoke to one woman who had flown in from Texas with her two daughters for the show. They all had been massive fans for years. Not only did they secure VIP tickets but also anticipated on attending for two nights of the New York residency.
Before we knew it, it was time for the openers. Frankie Cosmos graced the stage and captivated audiences that were filled with curiosity with a intruing thirty minute set. Performing songs such as “Art School” and “Outside With The Cuties.”
The clock struck nine and it was now time for Clairo. The show started off differently than most. Clairo and her band took their time to make their mark in one of the most creative ways I’ve ever witnessed. They all gathered in the center as Clairo poured out red wine, passing it along as the band mingled and laughed amongst themselves. Looking back on this moment, the theme was clear. From the elaborate Carole King inspired set design to the strong, contrasted dim lighting, the theme was going to center around a late night in the recording studio.
They started off the night with “Nomad,” a beautiful, soulful piece centering around heartbreak and solitude. As the night progressed, the infatuation of the audience began to rise with each song. If words can describe Clairo’s fanbase, it’s one of respect and humility. Her fans truly live in the moment and give their undivided attention to her throughout the show. One of the songs that got the audience really excited was “Bags” and “North.”
Towards the end of the show took an interesting yet humorous turn. As Clairo stood center stage with all the confidence in her and said “Boo if you think I’m hot.” Without any hesitation the crowd began to boo so loud to show their admiration for her as the drums and piano began to lead into “Sexy To Someone,” one of Clairo’s most popular songs from her newest album.
Of course, she ended up saving the best for last, “Juna.” The song that has been incredibly symbolic of this era. This song had a completely different sound to her old work, it was innovative. In a time where many are influenced by the sounds and aura of the early 2000s, Clairo decided to take steps further back from that to be ahead of the curve and put herself into a different category from the rest.
It’s incredible to see artists like her and artists similar to her such as Ryan Beatty and Lizzy McAlpine exploring new and innovative ways to create an intimate concerts in a world of social media. It’s truly refreshing to see.
To end it off with the woman I spoke to before the show, she expressed to me how she feels Clairo is on the rise to something great. Her popularity continues to soar every album and performance she does. Getting to be in the audience and witness the creative drive and talent of the young star was an incredible experience that I will never forget.
